Using outside sources,
For example, if your novel mentions a famous battle, a person, or other event, you would research that and see how it helps you understand the reading. You will share what your research uncovered, but more importantly you will explain how this information helped you understand the reading.
Note: It is better to choose one topic and to give an in-depth explanation of how it helped you, than to research a bunch of topics and give superficial explanations of each. “Quality over quantity” applies here!
Use MLA format for in-text citations and include a Works Cited page (this does not count toward the word count)
Book: April Raintree (page 81-166)
In the novel "April Raintree" by Beatrice Culleton, the protagonist April Raintree experiences a series of traumatic events and struggles with her identity as a Métis woman living in Canada. To gain a better understanding of the reading, I researched the Métis people's history and their experiences, which helped me comprehend the challenges faced by the character and the broader themes of the novel.
According to the research conducted by the Canadian Encyclopedia, the Métis people are descendants of Indigenous First Nations and European settlers, primarily French traders and explorers who arrived in Canada during the 17th and 18th centuries. The Métis developed a unique cultural identity, language, and way of life that blended Indigenous and European influences. This blending was often a product of marriages between Indigenous women and European men, leading to the emergence of the Métis people as a distinct community.
Understanding the historical context of the Métis people helped me grasp the struggles faced by April and her sister Cheryl in the novel. April faces discrimination and prejudice from both Indigenous and white communities due to her mixed heritage. The novel explores the challenges of identity and the sense of not belonging to either community fully. By researching the Métis people's history, I realized that April's struggle was not an isolated incident but representative of the broader experiences faced by individuals who shared her ancestry.
Furthermore, by delving into the history of the Métis people, I gained a deeper understanding of the systemic racism and marginalization depicted in the novel. The research highlighted the historical injustices faced by the Métis, including land dispossession and attempts to suppress their culture and way of life. This knowledge enabled me to contextualize the discrimination and adversity faced by April and Cheryl, as they confront racism in education, employment, and their personal lives.
Moreover, researching the Métis people's history also shed light on the resilience and strength of the community, which is exemplified in the character of April. The Métis people's rich cultural heritage, including their traditional practices, art, and storytelling traditions, played a vital role in maintaining their identity and fostering a sense of belonging. This understanding helped me connect with April's determination to assert her Métis identity and reclaim her heritage amidst the challenges she faced.
In conclusion, researching the history and experiences of the Métis people significantly enhanced my understanding of the novel "April Raintree." It allowed me to comprehend the protagonist's struggles, the underlying themes of identity and belonging, and the pervasive impact of racism and discrimination. Recognizing the Métis people's resilience and cultural heritage further deepened my appreciation for the character's journey and the broader historical context depicted in the novel.
Works Cited:
Culleton, Beatrice. April Raintree. Pemmican Publications, 1984.
"Métis." The Canadian Encyclopedia, www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/metis. Accessed 28 September 2021.