Question

Based on the novel Birchbark House by Louise Erdrich, in a paragraph or two, discuss the TWO significant events that happened in both the Summer and Fall. Choose two pieces of evidence from the book that help prove/describe how Omakayas reacted to that event. Draw on specific details and use direct quotations from the text to support the analysis.

(Summer events) 1. Old Tallow treats Omakayas differently because she has a gift like Grandma (Nokomis). 2. With this gift, Omakayas can talk to bears, and she is able to save Andeg. Include the outcome of Omakayas becoming unsure of herself by the end of the Summer.
(Fall events) 1. overhearing that the men wanted the tribe to leave the island, so Fishtail learns chimookomanug (white man's) language so the tribe can't be cheated on the treaty AND 2. discuss the bear encounter and bravery.

Example paragraph template:
Some of the events that occurred during the summer were ____. (make sure to discuss both events). During these seasons, Omakayas changed by ____. In the book, it says, “quote” (Edrich). This shows that during the Summer, Omakayas was ____.

Some of the main events that occurred during the Fall were____. Follow the same steps as you did for Summer if you follow this template.

Answer 1

In 'The Birchbark House', Omakayas experiences significant events in summer and fall that shape her character. The recognition of her spiritual gift and saving a bear underline her summer, while learning the white man's language and showcasing bravery during another bear encounter are pivotal in the fall.

Step-by-step explanation:

• Some of the events that occurred during the summer in The Birchbark House by Louise Erdrich included Old Tallow recognizing Omakayas' gift, similar to that of her grandmother Nokomis, and Omakayas' unique ability to communicate with bears, leading her to save Andeg. These moments highlight Omakayas' growing understanding of her spiritual connection to the natural world and her role within her community.
• One quote illustrating her reaction is, "I understood that the bear Andeg had a mind of his own and he contained the spirit of a bear, mysterious and separate from us" (Erdrich). This reflects Omakayas' introspection and her realization of the complexities of the relationships between humans and animals.
• By the end of the summer, despite her bravery and special gifts, Omakayas is left feeling uncertain about herself and her place in the world.

• During the fall, significant events included overhearing the men discussing the tribe's need to leave the island and learning the white man's language to prevent being cheated in treaty negotiations.
• Additionally, Omakayas displayed remarkable bravery during a bear encounter. Her courage is captured when Erdrich writes, "The bear was so close that she could see his nostrils open wide to test her scent" (Erdrich), showing Omakayas' ability to face danger with resolve.
• These experiences contribute to Omakayas' character development as she becomes more aware of the larger forces affecting her tribe's future and her own courage in the face of adversity.