1. Native American Literary Period
Time Frame: Pre 1620A.D. – 1840 A.D.

2. Native American Traditions
Native Americans did not think of themselves as living in a single nation.
Originally, there were over 200 distinct groups with more than 500 different languages
They had complex religious beliefs, sophisticated political systems, and strong social values, all reflected in their literature.

3. Literary Characteristics
Primarily an Oral Tradition
Major Themes
The Native Americans represent America’s first contributors to literature.
However, this literature was orally transmitted through storytelling and performances.
Expresses almost every oral genre: lyrics, chants, myths, proverbs, epics, humorous anecdotes, riddles, etc.
Humans live in harmony with nature, or Mother Earth and Father Sky.
Humans do not have dominion over nature.
Nature as spiritual and physical mother that is alive and endowed with spiritual forces.

4. Key Terms
Folk Tale = a short, simple story that is handed down usually orally, from generation to generation. Can include fairy tales, legends, myths, and fables.
Myth = A traditional story, passed down through generations, that explains why the world is the way it is. Myths support and validate social customs, thereby guiding people through the trials of living.
Creation Myth = explains how the universe, earth, and life began.
Trickster Tale = a tale of one who is foolish yet clever, greedy yet helpful, immoral yet moral. Contradictory qualities exist for the trickster. May feature a human or animal who engages in deceit, violence, and magic.

5. Thematic Characteristics – Think AVATAR!