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🌄World Literature II

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10.5 Indigenous literatures

8 min readLast Updated on August 21, 2024

Indigenous literatures offer unique perspectives on cultural identity, colonialism, and human-nature relationships. These diverse traditions span continents, blending oral storytelling with written forms to preserve ancestral wisdom and challenge Western literary norms.

World Literature II explores how Indigenous authors address themes like land connection, cultural preservation, and identity. Their works contribute to global literary dialogues, influencing postcolonial studies and environmental literature while gaining recognition on the world stage.

Origins of Indigenous literatures

  • Indigenous literatures emerge from diverse cultural traditions spanning continents, reflecting unique worldviews and histories
  • These literary forms serve as vital repositories of cultural knowledge, spiritual beliefs, and ancestral wisdom
  • World Literature II explores how Indigenous literatures challenge and enrich the global literary landscape

Oral traditions vs written forms

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  • Oral storytelling forms backbone of many Indigenous literary traditions
  • Passed down through generations via spoken word, songs, and performances
  • Written forms often developed later, sometimes in response to colonial influences
  • Oral traditions incorporate:
    • Repetition and rhythm to aid memorization
    • Audience participation and call-and-response elements
    • Gestural and performative aspects

Impact of colonization

  • Colonization disrupted traditional storytelling practices and knowledge transmission
  • Forced assimilation policies suppressed Indigenous languages and cultural expressions
  • Missionaries and colonial administrators introduced Western writing systems
  • Some Indigenous groups adapted writing to preserve their stories and resist cultural erasure
  • Colonial education systems often devalued Indigenous literary forms

Themes in Indigenous writings

  • Indigenous writings across cultures often share common thematic elements
  • These themes reflect shared experiences of colonization, displacement, and cultural resilience
  • World Literature II examines how these themes manifest in different Indigenous literary traditions

Connection to land

  • Land portrayed as living entity with spiritual significance
  • Stories often embed geographical features with cultural and historical meaning
  • Environmental stewardship emphasized as cultural responsibility
  • Displacement and loss of ancestral lands recurring motif
  • Land rights and sovereignty central themes in contemporary Indigenous literature

Cultural preservation

  • Literature serves as vehicle for preserving traditional knowledge and practices
  • Intergenerational transmission of cultural values through storytelling
  • Revitalization of endangered languages through literary works
  • Documentation of ceremonies, customs, and traditional ecological knowledge
  • Exploration of cultural hybridity and adaptation in modern contexts

Identity and belonging

  • Negotiation of Indigenous identity in face of colonial legacies
  • Exploration of dual identities and cultural in-betweenness
  • Reclamation of Indigenous names and naming practices
  • Confronting internalized colonialism and stereotypes
  • Celebration of Indigenous resilience and cultural pride

Indigenous literary genres

  • Indigenous literatures encompass diverse genres reflecting cultural specificities
  • These genres often blur Western literary categories, incorporating elements of spirituality and history
  • World Literature II explores how Indigenous genres challenge and expand literary conventions

Creation stories

  • Narratives explaining origins of world, humans, and natural phenomena
  • Often feature divine or ancestral beings shaping the cosmos
  • Incorporate cultural values and social norms into cosmic narratives
  • Variations of creation stories reflect regional biodiversity and geography
  • Modern retellings often blend traditional elements with contemporary issues

Trickster tales

  • Stories featuring clever, often mischievous characters who challenge social norms
  • Tricksters (Coyote, Raven, Anansi) teach moral lessons through their misadventures
  • Serve as cultural critique and source of humor
  • Often incorporate elements of transformation and shape-shifting
  • Contemporary authors reimagine trickster figures in modern settings

Contemporary Indigenous fiction

  • Novels and short stories addressing modern Indigenous experiences
  • Blend traditional storytelling techniques with Western literary forms
  • Themes include urban Indigenous life, intergenerational trauma, and cultural reclamation
  • Magical realism and speculative fiction genres gaining popularity
  • Often incorporate multilingual elements and Indigenous language revitalization

Notable Indigenous authors

  • Indigenous authors have gained increasing recognition in world literature
  • Their works challenge colonial narratives and offer unique perspectives on global issues
  • World Literature II examines the diverse voices emerging from different Indigenous traditions

North American voices

  • Louise Erdrich (Ojibwe) explores Anishinaabe culture and history in her novels
  • Sherman Alexie (Spokane-Coeur d'Alene) addresses contemporary Native American experiences
  • Leslie Marmon Silko (Laguna Pueblo) blends traditional storytelling with postmodern techniques
  • Thomas King (Cherokee) uses humor to critique stereotypes and colonial attitudes
  • Joy Harjo (Muscogee Creek) first Native American U.S. Poet Laureate, known for her poetry

Australian Aboriginal writers

  • Alexis Wright (Waanyi) incorporates Dreamtime stories into her award-winning novels
  • Kim Scott (Noongar) explores themes of language revitalization and cultural identity
  • Melissa Lucashenko (Goorie) addresses issues of class and race in contemporary Australia
  • Tony Birch (Koori) writes about environmental concerns and Indigenous connection to land
  • Ali Cobby Eckermann (Yankunytjatjara) poet known for her works on the Stolen Generations

Maori literature

  • Witi Ihimaera first published Maori novelist, author of "The Whale Rider"
  • Patricia Grace explores Maori family life and cultural traditions in her fiction
  • Keri Hulme won Booker Prize for "The Bone People," blending Maori and European influences
  • Hone Tuwhare renowned poet who wrote in both English and Maori
  • Alan Duff's "Once Were Warriors" addresses contemporary urban Maori experiences

Language and translation

  • Language plays a crucial role in preserving and transmitting Indigenous knowledge
  • Translation of Indigenous literatures presents unique challenges and opportunities
  • World Literature II examines how language and translation shape the global reception of Indigenous texts

Preservation of Indigenous languages

  • Literature serves as tool for language revitalization efforts
  • Bilingual publications promote language learning and cultural pride
  • Digital technologies used to create language learning resources
  • Oral histories and traditional stories recorded to preserve linguistic heritage
  • Indigenous language immersion programs often incorporate literary components

Challenges in translation

  • Difficulty in conveying cultural concepts without Western equivalents
  • Risk of losing rhythmic and performative aspects of oral traditions
  • Debates over standardization of writing systems for previously unwritten languages
  • Ethical considerations in translating sacred or restricted cultural knowledge
  • Need for cultural context and explanatory notes in translations

Indigenous literary movements

  • Indigenous literary movements have emerged as responses to colonialism and cultural oppression
  • These movements often intertwine literary production with political and social activism
  • World Literature II explores how these movements have shaped national and global literary landscapes

Native American Renaissance

  • Flourishing of Native American literature in the 1960s and 1970s
  • Key authors include N. Scott Momaday, James Welch, and Leslie Marmon Silko
  • Reclamation of Native American history and cultural identity through literature
  • Exploration of themes like land rights, spirituality, and cultural hybridity
  • Influenced development of Native American Studies programs in universities

First Nations literature in Canada

  • Emergence of First Nations voices in Canadian literature since the 1970s
  • Authors like Tomson Highway and Eden Robinson gaining national recognition
  • Addressing issues of residential schools and cultural genocide
  • Incorporation of Indigenous languages and storytelling techniques in English-language works
  • Growing presence of First Nations literature in Canadian school curricula

Representation and authenticity

  • Issues of representation and authenticity are central to discussions of Indigenous literatures
  • These concerns reflect broader debates about cultural ownership and the legacy of colonialism
  • World Literature II examines how Indigenous authors navigate these complex issues

Stereotypes vs realities

  • Challenging romanticized or derogatory stereotypes of Indigenous peoples
  • Presenting diverse and complex portrayals of contemporary Indigenous life
  • Addressing internalized stereotypes within Indigenous communities
  • Critiquing mainstream media representations of Indigenous cultures
  • Using humor and satire to subvert stereotypical expectations

Appropriation of Indigenous stories

  • Concerns over non-Indigenous authors using Indigenous stories and cultural elements
  • Debates on intellectual property rights for traditional cultural expressions
  • Efforts to establish ethical guidelines for publishing Indigenous stories
  • Importance of proper attribution and respect for cultural protocols
  • Promoting Indigenous voices and own-voices narratives in publishing industry

Contemporary Indigenous literature

  • Contemporary Indigenous literature reflects the evolving experiences of Indigenous peoples
  • These works often engage with both traditional knowledge and modern global issues
  • World Literature II explores how contemporary Indigenous literature contributes to global literary dialogues

Blending of traditions

  • Incorporation of traditional storytelling techniques in modern literary forms
  • Fusion of Indigenous oral traditions with digital storytelling and new media
  • Reimagining of traditional stories in contemporary settings
  • Use of code-switching and multilingual elements in texts
  • Exploration of cultural hybridity and "two-world" experiences

Addressing modern issues

  • Literature as platform for discussing environmental concerns and climate change
  • Exploration of urban Indigenous experiences and cultural identity
  • Addressing intergenerational trauma and impacts of colonial policies
  • Engagement with global Indigenous rights movements and solidarity
  • Representation of LGBTQ+ experiences within Indigenous communities

Global recognition

  • Indigenous literatures have gained increasing recognition on the world stage
  • This recognition reflects changing attitudes towards cultural diversity in literature
  • World Literature II examines how this global recognition impacts the production and reception of Indigenous texts

Literary awards for Indigenous authors

  • Establishment of dedicated awards for Indigenous literature (First Nations Communities Read)
  • Indigenous authors winning mainstream literary prizes (Booker Prize, Pulitzer Prize)
  • Growing presence of Indigenous authors at international literary festivals
  • Creation of Indigenous-led literary prizes and recognition systems
  • Impact of awards on visibility and sales of Indigenous literature

Indigenous literature in academia

  • Inclusion of Indigenous texts in world literature and postcolonial studies curricula
  • Development of Indigenous literary theory and critical approaches
  • Growth of Indigenous Studies programs and departments in universities
  • Challenges to Western academic frameworks in studying Indigenous literatures
  • Efforts to decolonize literary studies and promote Indigenous methodologies

Impact on world literature

  • Indigenous literatures have significantly influenced the landscape of world literature
  • These works offer unique perspectives on global issues and challenge Western literary norms
  • World Literature II explores how Indigenous literatures contribute to evolving concepts of world literature

Influence on postcolonial studies

  • Indigenous literatures provide crucial perspectives on colonialism and its legacies
  • Challenging Eurocentric literary canons and theories
  • Expanding notions of nationhood and cultural identity in literary studies
  • Contributions to theories of settler colonialism and decolonization
  • Intersections with other fields like Indigenous Studies and Cultural Studies

Contributions to environmental literature

  • Indigenous ecological knowledge enriching environmental writing
  • Offering alternative paradigms for human-nature relationships
  • Influence on ecocriticism and concepts of environmental justice
  • Indigenous futurisms imagining sustainable and decolonial futures
  • Bridging traditional ecological knowledge with contemporary environmental science

Key Terms to Review (36)

Activism in literature: Activism in literature refers to the use of written works—such as novels, poetry, essays, and plays—as a means to promote social change, advocate for marginalized communities, and raise awareness about social injustices. This form of literature serves not only as a reflection of society's struggles but also as a call to action, motivating readers to engage with important social issues. Through powerful narratives and compelling characters, activism in literature challenges prevailing norms and encourages critical thinking about justice, equality, and human rights.
Alan Duff: Alan Duff is a New Zealand author and playwright known for his contributions to contemporary indigenous literature, particularly in relation to the Māori experience. His works often explore themes of identity, culture, and social issues faced by Māori people, bridging the gap between traditional narratives and modern storytelling techniques.
Alexis Wright: Alexis Wright is an award-winning Indigenous Australian author, known for her powerful storytelling and representation of Aboriginal culture and experiences. Her works often explore themes of identity, connection to land, and the impact of colonialism on Indigenous communities, making her a significant figure in contemporary Indigenous literatures.
Ceremony: A ceremony is a formal event or ritual that often carries significant cultural, spiritual, or social meaning. These events serve to mark important occasions, celebrate traditions, or acknowledge transitions in life, such as births, marriages, or deaths. In many cultures, ceremonies are integral to storytelling and the passing down of traditions, especially within Indigenous communities.
Chinua Achebe: Chinua Achebe was a Nigerian novelist, poet, and critic, best known for his seminal work 'Things Fall Apart,' which explores the effects of colonialism on traditional African societies. His writing serves as a cornerstone of African postcolonial literature, addressing themes of identity, cultural conflict, and the complexities of postcolonial existence.
Colonialism and its aftermath: Colonialism refers to the practice of acquiring full or partial control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically. The aftermath of colonialism involves the lasting impacts of colonization on the indigenous populations, including cultural dislocation, social upheaval, and political challenges. These consequences can still be seen today in the form of identity struggles and movements for decolonization.
Contemporary indigenous fiction: Contemporary indigenous fiction refers to literary works produced by indigenous authors in recent times, reflecting their cultures, experiences, and perspectives. This genre often challenges stereotypes and dominant narratives, presenting complex characters and stories that resonate with both indigenous and non-indigenous readers. It serves as a platform for voices that have historically been marginalized, allowing for a richer understanding of the diverse realities faced by indigenous communities today.
Creation stories: Creation stories are traditional narratives that describe the origins of the world, humanity, and the universe, often involving deities, supernatural beings, and significant events. These tales are a vital part of cultural identity for Indigenous peoples, providing explanations for natural phenomena and moral lessons that shape their worldview and values.
Cultural identity: Cultural identity refers to the shared characteristics, values, beliefs, and practices that define a group of people and shape their collective identity. It encompasses the influences of ethnicity, language, religion, and traditions, often serving as a means for individuals to connect with their heritage and community. This concept is crucial in various literary contexts, especially in understanding how stories reflect the experiences and histories of different cultures.
Cultural Preservation: Cultural preservation refers to the efforts made to protect, maintain, and promote the traditions, languages, arts, and historical practices of a community or group. This process is vital for maintaining cultural identity and continuity, especially in the face of globalization and modernization, which can threaten the survival of unique cultures. It plays a crucial role in both African and Indigenous literatures, as these forms of expression often reflect the values, histories, and struggles of their respective communities.
First Nations literature in Canada: First Nations literature in Canada refers to the diverse body of written and oral works created by Indigenous peoples, specifically those belonging to First Nations, across the country. This literature encompasses a wide range of genres, including poetry, storytelling, novels, and plays, reflecting the unique cultural perspectives, histories, and lived experiences of First Nations communities. It plays a critical role in preserving Indigenous languages, traditions, and worldviews while challenging colonial narratives and promoting social justice.
Hone Tuwhare: Hone Tuwhare was a prominent New Zealand poet of Māori descent, known for his impactful and evocative poetry that reflects the rich cultural heritage and identity of the Māori people. His works often explore themes of nature, social justice, and the struggles of indigenous peoples, connecting deeply with the broader discourse of indigenous literatures around the world.
Joy Harjo: Joy Harjo is a prominent Native American poet, musician, and author, recognized as the first Native American Poet Laureate of the United States. Her work often explores themes of identity, cultural heritage, and the complexities of life as a Native woman, connecting deeply with Indigenous literatures and the spiritual ties to land and community.
Keri Hulme: Keri Hulme is a New Zealand author known for her significant contributions to literature, particularly through her exploration of Māori culture and identity. She gained international recognition for her novel 'The Bone People', which won the Booker Prize in 1985, blending elements of magic realism with profound themes of belonging and spirituality.
Kim Scott: Kim Scott is an acclaimed Indigenous Australian author known for his works that explore the complexities of Aboriginal identity and culture. His writing often addresses themes of colonization, reconciliation, and the ongoing impacts of Australia's colonial past on Indigenous communities. Scott's narratives serve as a bridge between traditional Indigenous storytelling and contemporary literary forms, reflecting both personal and collective experiences.
Land-based narratives: Land-based narratives refer to storytelling traditions that emphasize the relationship between indigenous peoples and their land, highlighting how landscapes shape cultural identity, spirituality, and communal practices. These narratives often serve to preserve history, convey moral lessons, and reinforce connections to ancestral territories, making the land a central character in the stories told by indigenous communities.
Leslie Marmon Silko: Leslie Marmon Silko is a prominent Native American writer known for her contributions to Indigenous literature, particularly through her novels, short stories, and poetry that highlight the experiences and perspectives of Native peoples. Her work often intertwines personal narratives with traditional storytelling, exploring themes of identity, culture, and the relationship between humans and nature.
Louise Erdrich: Louise Erdrich is an acclaimed Native American author known for her richly woven narratives that explore themes of identity, family, and cultural heritage. Her works often draw upon her Chippewa heritage and reflect the experiences of Indigenous peoples in contemporary society, making her a prominent voice in Indigenous literatures.
Marginalization: Marginalization refers to the social process by which certain groups or individuals are pushed to the edge of society, limiting their access to resources, rights, and opportunities. This often results in the exclusion of these groups from mainstream cultural, political, and economic life, which can be seen in various contexts such as indigenous communities and postcolonial societies, where language and identity play critical roles in their experiences of marginalization.
Melissa Lucashenko: Melissa Lucashenko is an Australian author known for her compelling narratives that highlight the experiences of Indigenous Australians. Her works often explore themes of identity, culture, and social issues, providing insight into the lives of Aboriginal people in contemporary Australia. Lucashenko's writing is significant for its authenticity and contribution to Indigenous literatures, making her a vital voice in the literary landscape.
Mythology: Mythology refers to a collection of traditional stories, legends, and beliefs that explain the origins of the world, natural phenomena, and cultural practices, often involving gods, heroes, and supernatural events. These narratives serve as a means for communities to understand their existence and the universe around them, forming an essential part of cultural identity and heritage.
Native American Renaissance: The Native American Renaissance refers to a cultural and literary movement that emerged in the late 20th century, characterized by a resurgence of Native American voices, themes, and traditions in literature and the arts. This period saw a significant increase in the publication of works by Native American authors, reflecting a renewed interest in indigenous identities, experiences, and storytelling forms, while also addressing social and political issues faced by Native communities.
Oral tradition: Oral tradition refers to the practice of passing down stories, histories, and cultural knowledge through spoken word rather than written text. This form of storytelling is vital in many cultures, serving as a primary means of preserving identity, values, and social norms, especially in societies where literacy is limited or non-existent.
Patricia Grace: Patricia Grace is a prominent Māori author from New Zealand, known for her contributions to Indigenous literature. Her writing often explores themes of identity, culture, and the experiences of Māori people, reflecting the deep connection between her characters and their land. Through her works, Grace has played a vital role in raising awareness about Māori issues and preserving Indigenous narratives.
Postcolonial literature: Postcolonial literature refers to the body of literary works produced in countries that were once colonies, addressing the effects and aftermath of colonialism on cultures, identities, and societies. This genre often explores themes of identity, power dynamics, and resistance while reflecting on the historical context of colonial rule and its lasting impact on both colonized and colonizer.
Reclamation of narrative: Reclamation of narrative refers to the process through which marginalized groups, such as Indigenous peoples, seek to regain control over their own stories and histories, often in response to historical misrepresentation and colonization. This act not only involves telling their own stories but also challenges dominant narratives that have marginalized or erased their voices. By reclaiming their narratives, these groups assert their identity, culture, and rights, reshaping how they are perceived both within their communities and by the broader society.
Sherman Alexie: Sherman Alexie is a prominent Native American author, poet, and filmmaker known for his exploration of contemporary Indigenous life in the United States. His works often tackle themes of identity, culture, and the struggles faced by Native Americans, blending humor with poignant social commentary.
Spiritual connection to land: The spiritual connection to land refers to the deep-rooted relationship that individuals or communities have with their environment, encompassing beliefs, traditions, and practices that honor and sustain this bond. This concept is particularly significant in Indigenous cultures, where land is not merely a physical space but a living entity imbued with sacred meaning and ancestral ties.
Symbolism in nature: Symbolism in nature refers to the use of natural elements as symbols that convey deeper meanings or themes in literature and art. This technique connects the human experience to the natural world, often representing emotions, concepts, or cultural beliefs through specific flora, fauna, landscapes, and weather phenomena. It allows writers and artists to create a layered understanding of characters' inner lives and societal issues.
Things Fall Apart: Things Fall Apart is a novel by Chinua Achebe that tells the story of Okonkwo, a proud Igbo leader and local wrestling champion, and the impact of British colonialism on traditional African society. The novel serves as a critical examination of the cultural disintegration experienced by African communities in the face of colonial pressures, illustrating the personal and communal conflicts that arise during this transformative period.
Thomas King: Thomas King is a prominent Indigenous Canadian author, storyteller, and academic, known for his influential works that address themes of identity, culture, and colonialism within Indigenous contexts. His writing often blends humor with profound insights, challenging stereotypes and exploring the complexities of Indigenous life in contemporary society.
Tony Birch: Tony Birch is an Australian author known for his powerful storytelling that often highlights the experiences and struggles of Indigenous people in Australia. His works delve into themes of identity, loss, and connection to the land, making significant contributions to Indigenous literatures and enriching the literary landscape with authentic voices and narratives.
Tradition and modernity: Tradition and modernity refer to the relationship between historical practices, beliefs, and cultural norms (tradition) and contemporary developments in society, technology, and thought (modernity). This dynamic interplay can significantly shape indigenous literatures, as communities navigate the tension between preserving ancestral ways of life and adapting to new realities and influences.
Tribal sovereignty: Tribal sovereignty refers to the inherent authority of indigenous tribes to govern themselves and manage their own affairs within their territories. This concept recognizes tribes as distinct political entities with the power to establish their own laws, maintain their cultures, and regulate activities on their lands, independent of state or federal interference.
Trickster Tales: Trickster tales are narratives that feature a clever, mischievous character who often uses their wit and cunning to outsmart others. These stories are prevalent in many Indigenous cultures and serve to impart moral lessons, cultural values, and insights into human behavior. The trickster often challenges social norms and reveals the complexities of good and evil, making these tales both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Witi Ihimaera: Witi Ihimaera is a prominent New Zealand writer known for his significant contributions to Indigenous literature, particularly focusing on the Māori experience. His works often explore themes of identity, culture, and the connection to land, making him a vital figure in the representation of Māori voices in contemporary literature.
Activism in literature
See definition

Activism in literature refers to the use of written works—such as novels, poetry, essays, and plays—as a means to promote social change, advocate for marginalized communities, and raise awareness about social injustices. This form of literature serves not only as a reflection of society's struggles but also as a call to action, motivating readers to engage with important social issues. Through powerful narratives and compelling characters, activism in literature challenges prevailing norms and encourages critical thinking about justice, equality, and human rights.

Term 1 of 36

Activism in literature
See definition

Activism in literature refers to the use of written works—such as novels, poetry, essays, and plays—as a means to promote social change, advocate for marginalized communities, and raise awareness about social injustices. This form of literature serves not only as a reflection of society's struggles but also as a call to action, motivating readers to engage with important social issues. Through powerful narratives and compelling characters, activism in literature challenges prevailing norms and encourages critical thinking about justice, equality, and human rights.

Term 1 of 36



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© 2025 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.