context Flashcards
Dutch explorers
This was the first ripple of the outside world arriving to the maori culture in December 1642. They were soon scared off.
Introduction of guns
By the 19th century, this was very popular. Ships needed a place to refuel, and the maori began selling food and shleter in return for muskets and other trading supplies. Led to Moari wars in which many died.
Who is Witi Ihimaera?
Born in 1944 in New Zealand. Grew up moari and sees his cultural background as having a large impact on his writing. Many of his books focus on the dynamics btween Maori and European cultures.
Moari views on family
Very important; tribes and sub tribes were like an extended family. They each have their own special traditions. Women could not be chief.
Nuclear testing and the environment in 1987.
The disaster of chenobyl had just happened. Contamination of oceans from nuclear testing and the melting of the ice cap because of global warming resulted in damage to the nature world and an adverse effect on whales.
Beaching of the whales
A direct result of human activity represented in the novel.
Ban on whaling
Happened in 1987 (the year before the book was written)
What was established to protect conserve marine mammals?
- Project Jonah in 1974
- Friends of the earth in America in 1969
Whaling and New Zealand identity
A huge part of new zealand’s culture. The first european settlers established whaling stations and in 1839, there were aprox 200 whaling ships. This declined whale population.
how is connection with nature represented in the story’s structure
divided into sections of seasings. Shows that nature is cyclical
how do Rawiri’s experiences in papua new guinea make him realise his love for nature?
he realised the power of nature at the coffee plantation
what is the use of maori language significant for?
preserving the identity of the tribe against the threats of modern communication and technology.
how is rawiri made to feel closer to his maori heritage
ironically, by the racism of jeff’s family
how is nanny’s lineage used to explore strong women?
People like Muriwai, who took the place of a man to save her tribe form drowning show that women can do the job of men.
what do the spears mean in Maori mythology
it is believed that the spears gave mankind and nature the ability to live in harmony.
