PMD - Native American Literature Lesson
Native American Literature Lesson
The work in expanding American literature to include multicultural voices was taken up and continued by Native American authors, many of whom blend traditional, tribal stories with modern-day experiences.
Please view the following presentation, which will introduce you to four important Native American writers: N. Scott Momaday, Louise Erdrich, Luci Tapahonso, and Joy Harjo. Please be patient while the video loads - depending on your internet connection, it may take some time. Ensure that your speakers are turned up, and use the controls at the bottom of the presentation if you need to pause the video. Make sure you also have a way to take notes, as this information will help you understand the texts in this unit and complete the unit assignments.
Reading Assignment
It is now time to read one text from each of the four authors introduced in this lesson. You will find the following linked texts :
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- An excerpt from House Made of Dawn by N. Scott Momaday Text Link Links to an external site.
- An excerpt from The Round House by Louise Erdrich Text Link Links to an external site.
- "It Has Always Been This Way" by Luci Tapahonso Text Link Links to an external site.
- "Everybody Has a Heartache: A Blues" by Joy Harjo Text Link Links to an external site.
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As you read, look for elements and characteristics of Postmodern writing, especially the blending of traditional and contemporary elements, the inclusion of multiple voices, personal emotional expression, and the use of non-traditional narrative patterns. You will use these observations on a future assignment. Finally, use the reading guide linked below to help self-assess your understanding of each text.
Native American Literature Reading Guide Text Link Links to an external site.
RESOURCES IN THIS MODULE ARE OPEN EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES (OER) OR CREATED BY GAVS UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. SOME IMAGES USED UNDER SUBSCRIPTION.