One of our points of departure for analysing Alexie's (2007) The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is that identity is learned through experience. For example, racial and gender identities are formed through a range of social experiences. Early in the novel, Arnold Spirit reflects on his parents' skills, talents and the achievements he believes they could have reached if they had not been poor. How do these reflections shape Arnold's sense of his identity as an American Indian?

Question

One of our points of departure for analysing Alexie's (2007) The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is that identity is learned through experience. For example, racial and gender identities are formed through a range of social experiences. Early in the novel, Arnold Spirit reflects on his parents' skills, talents and the achievements he believes they could have reached if they had not been poor. How do these reflections shape Arnold's sense of his identity as an American Indian?

Give a clear thesis statement and a roadmap

Answer 1

Thesis: Arnold Spirit's reflections on his parents' unrealized potential due to poverty contributes to his sense of identity as an American Indian, highlighting the systemic challenges faced by his community and serving as a motivation for him to break free from the cycle of poverty.

Roadmap:
1. Exploring Arnold's observations of his parents' skills, talents, and unfulfilled achievements due to poverty.
2. Examining how these reflections contribute to shaping Arnold's sense of his identity as an American Indian.
3. Analyzing the impact of systemic challenges faced by Arnold's community and how it shapes his identity.
4. Discussing how Arnold's motivation to escape poverty is influenced by his observations of his parents' situation.
5. Highlighting the significance of Arnold's reflections in propelling his personal growth and determination to redefine his identity as an American Indian.

Answer 2

Thesis Statement: Arnold Spirit's reflections on his parents' unfulfilled potential due to poverty contribute to his understanding of his own identity as an American Indian in The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie.

Roadmap:
1. Introduction of the concept of identity being learned through experience and the influence of social experiences on racial and gender identities.
2. Discussion of Arnold Spirit's reflections on his parents' skills, talents, and missed opportunities due to poverty.
3. Exploration of how these reflections shape Arnold's sense of his own identity as an American Indian.
4. Analysis of the impact of poverty on Arnold's understanding of his cultural heritage and his perception of societal limitations.
5. Conclusion highlighting the significance of Arnold's reflections on his parents' experiences in shaping his identity as an American Indian.