Includes bibliographical references (pages 261-293) and index.
Contents:
Introduction. Negative work -- The baskets copy our stories -- Birthright, bondage, and beyond -- The broad theater of the world -- "And they held all things in common" -- Becoming a son of the forest -- Indian preacher -- The bizarre theater of empire -- Conclusion. "He possessed the real traits of the Indian character" -- Appendix: Memorial of the Marshpee Indians, January 1834.
Summary:
"The life of William Apess (1789-1839), a Pequot Indian, Methodist preacher, and widely celebrated writer, provides a lens through which to comprehend the complex dynamics of indigenous survival and resistance in the era of America's early nationhood. Apess's life intersects with multiple aspects of indigenous identity and existence in this period, including indentured servitude, slavery, service in the armed forces, syncretic engagements with Christian spirituality, and Native struggles for political and cultural autonomy. Even more, Apess offers a powerful and provocative voice for the persistence of Native presence in a time and place that was long supposed to have settled its "Indian question" in favor of extinction. Through meticulous archival research, close readings of Apess's key works, and informed and imaginative speculation about his largely enigmatic life, Drew Lopenzina provides a vivid portrait of this singular Native American figure. This new biography will sit alongside Apess's own writing as vital reading for those interested in early America and indigeneity."--Provided by publisher.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.