Bury My Heart At Wounded Knee Novel
Introduction
Bury My Heart At Wounded Knee is a historical novel written by Dee Brown in 1970. The novel depicts the history of the Native Americans in the United States from their perspective. It describes the events that took place in the 19th century, which led to the displacement and genocide of the Native American people.
The Plot
The novel starts with the arrival of Christopher Columbus in America and how the Native American people welcomed him. It then proceeds to describe the events that took place in the 19th century, including the Indian Wars, the Trail of Tears, and the Battle of Little Bighorn.
The novel also describes the lives of the Native American people before the arrival of the Europeans and their culture, traditions, and beliefs. It portrays the Native Americans as peaceful and respectful people who were forced to defend themselves against the invading Europeans.
The Characters
The novel has a wide range of characters, including Native American chiefs, warriors, and women. It also includes European settlers, soldiers, and politicians. Some of the notable characters in the novel include Red Cloud, Sitting Bull, Crazy Horse, and General George Custer.
The Themes
The novel explores several themes, including the destruction of a way of life, the loss of identity, and the struggle for survival. It also highlights the themes of injustice and oppression, as the Native American people were subjected to discrimination, forced relocation, and genocide.
The novel also portrays the theme of cultural clash, as the Native American people were forced to adapt to the European way of life, which was vastly different from their own.
The Significance
Bury My Heart At Wounded Knee is a significant novel as it portrays the history of the Native American people from their perspective. It highlights the atrocities committed against them, which were often ignored or downplayed in traditional history books.
The novel also helped to raise awareness about the plight of the Native American people and their struggle for justice and equality.
The Reception
The novel was well-received by critics and readers alike. It won several awards, including the National Book Award for Nonfiction in 1971. The novel has also been adapted into a film and a television series.
However, the novel has also faced criticism from some quarters, who argue that it portrays the Native American people in a one-dimensional way and fails to acknowledge their diversity and complexity.
Conclusion
Bury My Heart At Wounded Knee is a powerful novel that provides a unique perspective on the history of the Native American people. It portrays their struggle for survival and highlights the injustices committed against them. The novel is a must-read for anyone interested in American history and the plight of marginalized communities.