Louise Erdrich's Tracks: A Study Guide for Course Hero

Louise Erdrich's "Tracks" is a powerful and moving novel that explores the complex history of Native Americans in the United States. The novel follows the lives of two Ojibwe women, Fleur Pillager and Nanapush, as they navigate the challenges of living in a world that is often hostile to their culture.

"Tracks" is a complex and challenging novel, but it is also a deeply rewarding one. Erdrich's writing is lyrical and evocative, and her characters are unforgettable. The novel offers a unique and valuable perspective on the history of Native Americans in the United States, and it is sure to stay with you long after you finish reading it.

"Tracks" is set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries on the Ojibwe reservation in North Dakota. The novel follows the lives of two Ojibwe women, Fleur Pillager and Nanapush.

Study Guide for Louise Erdrich's Tracks (Course Hero Study Guides)

by Course Hero

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1619 KB
Print length	:	32 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Fleur is a young woman who is struggling to find her place in the world. She is torn between her traditional Ojibwe culture and the white culture that is increasingly encroaching on her reservation. Fleur's story is one of loss and resilience, as she tries to find her own way in a world that is constantly changing.

Nanapush is a wise old woman who has witnessed the many changes that have taken place on the reservation over her lifetime. She is a keeper of the Ojibwe traditions, and she is determined to pass them on to the next generation. Nanapush's story is one of hope and strength, as she shows the power of tradition and the importance of community.

The novel is narrated in a non-linear style, and it moves back and forth in time. This narrative style allows Erdrich to explore the complex history of the Ojibwe people and the many challenges they have faced.

"Tracks" explores a wide range of themes, including:

• The loss of culture: The novel shows how the Ojibwe people have lost much of their culture due to the encroachment of white settlers. Fleur's story is particularly poignant, as she struggles to find her place in a world that is increasingly foreign to her.
• The resilience of the human spirit: Despite the many challenges they face, the Ojibwe people have remained resilient. Nanapush's story is a testament to the power of tradition and the importance of community.
• The importance of family: Family is central to the Ojibwe culture, and "Tracks" shows how family can provide support and strength in times of adversity. Fleur and Nanapush's relationship is a powerful example of the love and support that family can provide.
• The power of storytelling: Storytelling is an important part of the Ojibwe culture, and "Tracks" shows how stories can be used to pass on tradition, teach lessons, and heal wounds. Nanapush is a master storyteller, and her stories are a vital part of the novel.

"Tracks" features a cast of complex and unforgettable characters. The two main characters are:

• Fleur Pillager: Fleur is a young Ojibwe woman who is struggling to find her place in the world. She is torn between her traditional Ojibwe culture and the white culture that is increasingly encroaching on her reservation.
• Nanapush: Nanapush is a wise old woman who has witnessed the many changes that have taken place on the reservation over her lifetime. She is a keeper of the Ojibwe traditions, and she is determined to pass them on to the next generation.

In addition to Fleur and Nanapush, the novel also features a number of other memorable characters, including:

• Lazarus: Fleur's husband, who is a white man.
• Bernadette "Bunny" Morriseau: Fleur's best friend, who is also a white woman.
• Pauline Puyat: Nanapush's daughter, who is a strong and independent woman.
• Margaret Kashpaw: Nanapush's granddaughter, who is a talented artist.

"Tracks" is set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries on the Ojibwe reservation in North Dakota. The reservation is a harsh and unforgiving place, but it is also a place of beauty and spirituality. Erdrich's descriptions of the reservation are lyrical and evocative, and they help to create a vivid sense of place.

Erdrich's writing is lyrical and evocative, and she uses a variety of literary techniques to create a rich and complex narrative. The novel is narrated in a non-linear style, and it moves back and forth in time. This narrative style allows Erdrich to explore the complex history of the Ojibwe people and the many challenges they have faced.

Erdrich also uses a variety of literary devices, such as symbolism, allegory, and foreshadowing, to create a deeper level of meaning in the novel. For example, the novel's title, "Tracks," can be seen as a symbol of the Ojibwe people's journey through history.

"Tracks" has been praised by critics for its lyrical writing, complex characters, and insightful exploration of Native American history. The novel has won numerous awards, including the National Book Critics Circle Award and the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.

1. How does "Tracks" explore the loss of culture?
2. What does the novel say about the resilience of the human spirit?
3. How is family important in the Ojibwe culture?
4. What role does storytelling play in "Tracks"?
5. How does Erdrich's writing style contribute to the novel's meaning?

Louise Erdrich's "Tracks" is a powerful and moving novel that explores the complex history of Native Americans in the United States. The novel is a must-read for anyone who wants to learn more about Native American culture and history.

Study Guide for Louise Erdrich's Tracks (Course Hero Study Guides)

by Course Hero

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1619 KB
Print length	:	32 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE