Literature of the American Indians

"This collection, drawing on Indian memories, symbolism and critical evaluations, adds to our understanding of both the traditional and contemporary literature of and about the American Indian. The whole spectrum of thought about Indian literature is covered here, starting with a Seneca legend on the origin of storytelling; progressing to nineteenth century commentaries by writers such as the Christian convert George Copway (Kah-Ge-Ga-Bowh), novelist William Gilmore Simms, and pioneer anthropologist Daniel G. Brinton; and finally presenting modern-day views by Tristram P. Coffin, Kenneth Rexroth, N. Scott Momaday, Jorge Luis Borges, and Paula Gunn Allen. The subject of Indian humor is delightfully examined by Vine Deloria, Jr., and the now classic texts of scholars such as Franz Boas and Constance Rourke are also included."