Community

Definition

Community refers to a group of people who share common interests, values, or cultural practices, often forming a sense of belonging and identity. In various artistic expressions, community plays a crucial role in shaping narratives and experiences, providing a foundation for shared storytelling and collective memory.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In pre-contact poetic forms, community was expressed through shared rituals and storytelling that reinforced social bonds and cultural heritage.
2. The emergence of Native American novels marked a shift towards exploring personal and collective identities within the context of specific communities, reflecting their struggles and triumphs.
3. Native American filmmakers often emphasize community by showcasing the interconnectedness of characters and the impact of cultural traditions on their lives.
4. Literature from Native American authors frequently reflects themes of community resilience in the face of colonization and contemporary challenges.
5. Artistic expressions in various forms often serve as a means for Native American communities to voice their histories, perspectives, and aspirations.

Review Questions

• How do pre-contact poetic forms reflect the importance of community in Native American cultures?
  • Pre-contact poetic forms often emphasize communal experiences, with poems serving as vehicles for storytelling that resonate with shared histories and values. These expressions were typically performed during rituals or gatherings, reinforcing social cohesion and cultural identity. By capturing the collective experiences of the community, these poetic forms helped preserve traditions and fostered a sense of belonging among individuals.
• In what ways do Native American novels illustrate the concept of community through their narratives?
  • Native American novels frequently illustrate community by focusing on the relationships between characters and how these connections shape their identities. Through intricate plots that explore communal challenges, traditions, and triumphs, these narratives highlight the significance of cultural heritage. Additionally, authors often depict how individual struggles are intertwined with broader community issues, emphasizing the collective journey toward healing and empowerment.
• Evaluate how Native American filmmakers use the theme of community to convey cultural messages in their works.
  • Native American filmmakers utilize the theme of community to convey deep cultural messages that resonate with viewers on multiple levels. By portraying the interconnectedness among characters, filmmakers highlight how personal stories are influenced by collective histories and traditions. This approach not only honors cultural values but also addresses contemporary issues facing Native American communities. Through powerful storytelling techniques and visual representation, these filmmakers promote understanding and awareness about the importance of community in sustaining cultural identity.

Related terms

Oral Tradition: The passing down of stories, beliefs, and customs through spoken word, playing a vital role in preserving community history and cultural identity.

Cultural Identity:

The shared characteristics, beliefs, and values that define a group of people, often influenced by their community's traditions and experiences.

Collective Memory: The shared pool of knowledge and information in the memories of a group, which contributes to a community's identity and sense of belonging.