American Lit Quiz - 9/7/23

Oral Tradition

stories passed down verbally (ex. lullabies, bedtime stories)

Creation myth

tell how the world and human beings came to exist

The Innocent archetype

A morally pure character, often a child, whose only intentions are good (ex. Buddy the Elf)

Memoir

A non-fiction, first person written account of events and memories from the author's real life (they focus on personal experience, intimacy, and emotional truth)

Archetype

A symbol, story pattern, or character type that is found in the literature of many cultures

How the World Was Made (Summary)

A tale told by the Cherokee Indian tribe, includes a description of life before the earth. The legend says that, before the earth, only water occupied the space under the animals, who lived in a place high above.

Myth

A traditional story, passed down through generations, that explains why the world is the way it is

Origin myth

Explains why phenomena like the stars, moon, and sky came to be and why certain animals have certain characteristics

I have Killed The Deer (Summary)

It highlights the unique Indian perspective of nature and its contribution to the cycle of life. The song teaches us that Native Americans want to continue the cycle of life and never break it.

The Way To Rainy Mountain (Summary)

It is about the journey of Momaday's Kiowa ancestors from their ancient beginnings. One of the central ideas of the story is that as long as the memories and oral traditions are kept alive, the Kiowa culture won't be lost.

Trickster archetype

Rebels who defy authority and cause trouble, but they are creative, clever, and unexpectedly reveal wisdom. Frequently an animal that speaks and displays other human traits. (ex. Bugs Bunny)

The Hero archetype

The protagonist who rises to meet a challenge and saves the day (ex. Wonder Woman)

The Lover archetype

The romantic lead who's guided by the heart (ex. Romeo and Juliet)