M. Scott Momaday

Definition

M. Scott Momaday is a prominent Native American author and poet, known for his influential works that celebrate the culture, language, and history of Native Americans, particularly those from the Southwest. His writing often emphasizes the importance of storytelling and cultural identity, highlighting the rich traditions of Native American heritage and their preservation through literature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. M. Scott Momaday was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1969 for his novel 'House Made of Dawn', which is considered a seminal work in Native American literature.
2. 'House Made of Dawn' tells the story of a young Navajo man returning home after World War II and grappling with his cultural identity and heritage.
3. Momaday's work reflects his own Kiowa heritage and emphasizes the importance of preserving Native American languages and traditions.
4. In addition to writing novels, Momaday has produced poetry, essays, and plays that explore themes of nature, spirituality, and the interconnectedness of life.
5. Momaday is also an advocate for cultural preservation programs that aim to maintain and revitalize Native American languages and traditions in modern society.

Review Questions

• How does M. Scott Momaday's writing contribute to the understanding of Native American culture and identity?
  • M. Scott Momaday's writing plays a significant role in enhancing the understanding of Native American culture and identity by weaving traditional storytelling with contemporary themes. His works often depict the struggles of Native Americans to maintain their cultural heritage amidst modern challenges. By using his Kiowa background as a foundation for his stories, he provides insights into the values, beliefs, and experiences that shape Native American identity.
• In what ways did Momaday's novel 'House Made of Dawn' reflect the themes of cultural dislocation and identity crisis faced by Native Americans?
  • 'House Made of Dawn' captures the essence of cultural dislocation experienced by many Native Americans through the protagonist's journey. As he returns home after serving in World War II, he confronts feelings of alienation from both his community and his heritage. The novel illustrates how trauma can impact one's sense of self and highlights the struggle to reconnect with cultural roots amid external pressures to conform to a different societal norm.
• Evaluate the significance of M. Scott Momaday’s contributions to cultural preservation efforts within Native American communities.
  • M. Scott Momaday's contributions to cultural preservation are significant because he bridges traditional storytelling with contemporary literature, bringing attention to the importance of Native American languages and customs. His advocacy for these issues promotes awareness about the threats facing indigenous cultures today. By using his platform as an acclaimed author to discuss these topics, he inspires both Native Americans and non-Native audiences to value and engage with cultural preservation efforts that honor indigenous identities.

Related terms

Native American Renaissance:

A literary movement in the late 20th century characterized by a resurgence of Native American authors who gained national recognition and explored themes of identity, culture, and tradition.

Storytelling: A traditional form of communication within Native American cultures, where oral histories and narratives are shared to pass down knowledge, values, and cultural heritage.

Cultural Identity: The sense of belonging to a particular cultural group, shaped by shared traditions, languages, and values, which is often a central theme in Momaday's works.