The Arts, Lodges (Plank Longhouses), Stratified Social Organization and Ceremonialism (Potlatch, Secret Societies, Warfare): The Kwakiutl, Tlingit, Tsimshian, and the Northwest Coast
Readings:
Oswalt 2006: 268-305 or 2009: 265-303
Lecture Handouts:
Video:
In the Land of the War Canoes (47 min., best known as one of the premiere photographers of the 20th century, Edward S. Curtis devoted his life to documenting the disappearing world of the American Indian. In this 1914 film, originally titled "In the Land of the Headhunters," Curtis retold a tribal story of love and revenge among the Kwakiutl Indians of Vancouver Island. Curtis spent three years with the Kwakiutl to meticulously recreate their way of life before the white man came. In addition to the magnificent painted war canoes of the title, the film features wonderful native costumes, dancing and rituals--including a powerful scene of a vision quest. In the Land of the War Canoes was restored from the only surviving print in 1972 with a new score of original music and chants by the Kwakiutls themselves.)
Dances of the Kwakiutl (9 min., this 1951 short film illustrates the Hamatsa cannibal dance, an impressive artistic and spiritual expression in Kwakiutl society)
Keeping the Spirit Alive (48 min., this 1999 documentary focuses on five talented Northwest Coast artists who are carrying forward and developing their rich traditions and are part of the ongoing revitalization movement.)
Faith To Continuance (17 min., this 2002 documentary focuses on the art of Lillian Pitt and Pat Courtney Gold, and others on the Lower Columbia River.)