Essay Assignment 1

This assignment, which is worth 25% of your final grade, should be submitted for marking after you have completed Unit 5. The assignment requires you to write a 1,500 to 2,000-word (approximately 6 to 8 pages) formal essay on one of the following topics:

1. Compare and contrast the universal relationships as depicted in two creation myths (i.e., consider human beings’ relationship with nature, the animals, the creator, the cosmos, and/or with each other). (Note: You may also use the “Book of Genesis” as one of the creation myths.)
2. Explore the didactic (moral or ethical) teachings in two of the following traditional myths: “Wesakachak and the Geese,” “The Shivering Tree,” and “Why the Moose’s Skin is Loose” (Unit 3).
3. Compare the historical context, rhetorical development, and use of figurative language in one of the Native orations featured in Unit 4.
4. Discuss the historical significance of the laments attributed to “Shanawdithit” by Rita Joe and “big bear” by Duncan Mercredi (Unit 5).
5. Discuss the theme of cultural clash in the poems “Falling Song” by Daniel David Moses, “Shanawdithit” by Rita Joe, and “Nothing Sacred” by Gregory Scofield (Unit 5).
6. Compare the depictions of Native women presented in two of the following poems: “Squaw Poems” by Marilyn Dumont, “The Cattle Thief” by Pauline Johnson, and “Shanawdithit” by Rita Joe (Unit 5).
7. Compare the role and characteristics of the trickster as described in two of the following contemporary short stories: “This Is a Story” by Jeanette Armstrong, “Weaver Spider’s Web” by Peter Blue Cloud, and “The One About Coyote Going West” by Thomas King (Unit 3).
8. Examine the similarities and differences of the trickster as he/she is depicted in a traditional trickster myth and in a contemporary short story (Unit 3).
9. Discuss how figurative language is used in exploring the theme of colonization as presented in two of the following works: “This Is a Story” by Jeanette Armstrong, “The One About Coyote Going West” by Thomas King, “History Lesson” by Jeanette Armstrong, and “Nothing Sacred” by Gregory Scofield (Units 3 and 5).
10. Tape a story told by a Native elder. Then transcribe and edit the material into a coherent text that maintains the integrity of the original narration. Provide the relevant background information on the elder. (See “Captive in an English Circus” by Harry Robinson, Unit 6.)

In each case, you must develop a thesis or main idea and support your position using specific references to the texts under examination. Refer to the “Essay Writing,” “Grading Criteria for Essays,” and “Sample Essays” sections of the Student Manual for further assistance and directions on preparing and submitting your written assignment. Contact your tutor if you have any questions or concerns.

You are strongly advised to wait for tutor feedback on this assignment before you begin the second essay.