Oral Traditions and Myths Chapter 1

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Questions and Answers

What writing style focuses on clarity and religious purpose?

Formal style

Plain style (correct)

Descriptive style

Rhetorical style

In literature, what is meant by 'typology'?

A literary device foreshadowing New Testament events (correct)

A symbol representing modern concepts

A comparative analysis of different styles

A form of literary critique

What does 'counterclaim' refer to in argumentation?

The confirmation of a claim

A rebuttal to the main argument (correct)

An unrelated statement

A supporting argument for a claim

What is a creation myth primarily intended to explain?

How the world, humans, and life began Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by a 'claim' in an argumentative text?

An author's statement or assertion that is presented as true Signup and view all the answers

Which option describes archetypes in literature?

Recurring symbols or motifs that represent universal patterns Signup and view all the answers

Which type of allusion specifically references ancient Greek or Roman literature?

Classical allusion Signup and view all the answers

What does 'point of view' determine in a narrative?

The narrator's perspective and depth of understanding Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of persuasive appeals in writing?

To persuade the audience using techniques such as ethos, pathos, and logos Signup and view all the answers

What is the central idea or message conveyed in a literary work called?

Theme Signup and view all the answers

Which narrative mode provides an external perspective using 'he,' 'she,' or 'they'?

Third-person point of view Signup and view all the answers

What is 'argumentation' primarily concerned with?

The presentation of claims and evidence to persuade an audience Signup and view all the answers

What is the tone of a piece of writing?

The author's attitude reflected in their writing style Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the term 'proof' in writing?

Evidence or reasons that support a claim Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of writing involves the author's reason for writing?

Purpose Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes bias in writing?

A tendency to present information favoring a specific standpoint Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Oral Tradition and Myths

Oral tradition involves passing stories, histories, and beliefs through word of mouth across generations.
Example: Native American creation stories illustrate rich oral traditions.
Myths are traditional stories that explain natural or social phenomena through supernatural elements.
Example: The Iroquois creation myth provides insight into their cultural beliefs.

Creation Myth and Archetypes

Creation myths narrate the origins of the world, humans, and life.
Example: "How the World Began" from the Iroquois describes their cosmology.
Archetypes represent recurring symbols or motifs that embody universal human experiences.
Example: The "Great Tree" symbolizes life and interconnectedness in Iroquois narratives.

Historical Narratives and Perspectives

Historical narratives recount events while blending factual details with the author's interpretations.
Example: "Of Plymouth Plantation" by William Bradford serves as a personal historical account.
Point of view shapes how stories are told, influencing reader understanding.
Example: John Smith's "The General History" uses third-person point of view.

Narrative Modes

First-person point of view uses "I" or "we," offering a personal storytelling aspect.
Example: Mary Rowlandson's "Narrative of the Captivity" shares her personal experiences.
Third-person point of view employs pronouns like "he" or "they" for an external narrative.
Example: John Smith's work provides an objective recounting of events.

Persuasive Techniques and Tone

Persuasive appeals include ethos (credibility), pathos (emotion), and logos (logic) to sway audiences.
Example: Smith's "A Description of New England" employs these techniques to attract settlers.
Tone reflects the author's attitude and can influence the reader's perception.
Example: Winthrop's Journal exhibits a serious and devout tone.

Authorial Purpose and Audience

The purpose of a text may include informing, entertaining, persuading, or explaining.
Example: Bradford's "Of Plymouth Plantation" aims to document the Pilgrims' journey and settlement.
The identified audience influences the content and style of the writing.
Example: John Smith targeted English settlers and sponsors in his writings.

Worldview and Bias

Worldview is shaped by cultural, religious, and personal influences, impacting interpretation.
Example: The Puritan worldview in Winthrop’s writings reflects their spiritual beliefs.
Bias refers to presenting information favoring a specific perspective.
Example: Smith’s self-aggrandizing portrayal in "The General History" illustrates bias.

Writing Style and Themes

Plain style prioritizes simplicity and clarity, especially prominent in Puritan literature.
Example: Bradford's direct writing in "Of Plymouth Plantation" focuses on religious purpose.
Theme represents the central message or idea conveyed in a literary work.
Example: "Narrative of the Captivity" explores survival and faith amid hardship.

Allusions and Symbolism

Allusion is a reference to other texts or events, enriching literary context.
Example: Biblical allusions enrich the themes in Bradford's narrative.
Typology uses Old Testament symbols to foreshadow New Testament events.
Example: The Pilgrims equate their journey to that of the Israelites.

Argumentation and Literary Elements

Argumentation involves presenting claims backed by evidence to persuade readers.
Example: Smith advocates for colonization's benefits in "A Description of New England."
Claims are assertions presented by an author as true.
Example: Smith claims New England is conducive to settlement.

Conclusion Techniques and Captivity Narratives

Conclusions summarize key arguments and reflect reasoning processes.
Example: Smith concludes the advantages of settling in New England.
Captivity narratives depict experiences of individuals held against their will, offering insight into survival and cultural clashes.

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Description

Explore the fascinating concepts of oral traditions and myths as central ways of passing down stories and beliefs. This quiz delves into examples such as Native American creation stories and the Iroquois creation myth, focusing on their significance in cultural heritage. Test your understanding of how these narratives shape our perception of history and natural phenomena.