origins and encounters. when did native americans begin cultivating maize? c. 2000-1000 b.c
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How many distinct groups of native peoples lived in the Americas? How many languages did they
speak?• more than 200 groups
• more than 500 languages
Is literature only what is written down? If not, what else can be
literature?• oral literature also counts
• passed down to each generation through storytelling and performances
• connect with ancient Greek mythology, The Odyssey
In what ways will your experience of the reading selections in this
section be different from the way they were originally experienced?
• reading instead of hearing/seeing
• not original language – translated into English
Name three ideas emphasized in Native American literature that make it unique
from other cultures’ literature.• emphasizes importance of living in
harmony with natural world– humans are part of nature, not dominant
• humans related to animals, plants, land, stars/planets, elements– which are alive and aware
• human and non-human make a sacred whole together
What caused the change or loss of some Native American cultures?
• Loss: European diseases and violence
• Change:– forced religious conversion– forced relocation– forced education
How is Native American literature being kept alive today?
• singing songs
• telling stories
• writing in English