Question

Write a rhetorical analysis essay on a chapter of the way to rainy mountain by N. Scott Momaday look at how the structure of the chapter supports the books overall purpose and use specific examples from text to support your claim.

The way to rainy mountain chapter 3 given below:
Before there were horses the Kiowas had need of dogs. That was a long time ago, when dogs could talk. There was a man who lived alone; he had been thrown away, and he made his camp here and there on the high ground. Now it was danger- ous to be alone, for there were enemies all around. The man spent his arrows hunting food. He had one arrow left, and he shot a bear; but the bear was only wounded and it ran away. The man wondered what to do. Then a dog came up to him and said that many enemies were coming; they were close by and all around. The man could think of no way to save himself. But the dog said: "You know, I have puppies. They are young and weak and they have nothing to eat. If you will take care of my puppies, I will show you how to get away." The dog led the man here and there, around and around, and they came to safety.
A hundred years ago the Comanche Ten Bears remarked upon the great number of horses which the Kiowas owned. "When we first knew you," he said, "you had nothing but dogs and sleds." It was so; the dog is primordial. Perhaps it was dreamed into being.
The principal warrior society of the Kiowas was the Ka-itsenko, "Real Dogs," and it was made up of ten men only, the ten most brave. Each of these men wore a long ceremonial sash and carried a sacred arrow. In time of battle he must by means of this arrow impale the end of his sash to the earth and stand his ground to the death. Tradi- tion has it that the founder of the Ka-itsenko had a dream in which he saw a band of warriors, outfitted after the fashion of the society, being led by a dog. The dog sang the song of the Ka-itsenko, then said to the dreamer: "You are a dog; make a noise like a dog and sing a dog song."
There were always dogs about my grandmother's house. Some of them were nameless and lived a life of their own. They belonged there in a sense that the word "ownership" does not include. The old people paid them scarcely any attention, but they should have been sad, I think, to see them go.

Answer 1

[AI-generated answer — Bot GPT 3.5]

In Chapter 3 of "The Way to Rainy Mountain" by N. Scott Momaday, the author explores the importance of dogs in Kiowa culture and history, highlighting the power and significance of these animals in the lives of the Kiowas. Through a series of anecdotal stories and reflections, Momaday delves into the primordial nature of dogs and their role as protectors, guides, and companions for the Kiowa people.

Throughout the chapter, Momaday utilizes a mythical and dream-like narrative structure to convey the deep connection between the Kiowas and dogs. He begins with a story of a man who is saved by a dog, highlighting the loyalty and intelligence of these animals. The tale of the man and the wounded bear illustrates the symbiotic relationship between humans and dogs, emphasizing the mutual dependence and trust that existed between them. By framing the story within a dream-like context, Momaday suggests that the bond between the man and the dog transcends reality and taps into a deeper, mystical connection.

Momaday further explores the cultural significance of dogs among the Kiowas by discussing the Ka-itsenko, the principal warrior society of the tribe. The founding myth of the Ka-itsenko, involving a dog leading a band of warriors, underscores the spiritual and symbolic role of dogs in Kiowa society. The dog is portrayed as a powerful and revered figure, embodying bravery, loyalty, and tradition. The ceremonial sash and sacred arrow carried by the members of the society symbolize the sacred bond between the warriors and their canine counterparts.

Furthermore, Momaday reflects on the presence of dogs in his grandmother's house, highlighting the emotional attachment and sense of belonging that these animals brought to the Kiowa community. The unnamed dogs that roamed freely around the house signify a connection to the past and a reminder of the bond between humans and animals. The indifference of the older generation towards the dogs indicates a deep-rooted acceptance and understanding of their place within the Kiowa culture.

The overall structure of the chapter supports Momaday's overarching theme of the interconnectedness of nature, spirit, and culture. By weaving together personal anecdotes, historical narratives, and mythical elements, Momaday creates a tapestry of storytelling that captures the essence of Kiowa identity and heritage. The dream-like quality of the narrative enhances the sense of mysticism and reverence surrounding the relationship between humans and dogs, inviting readers to consider the deeper spiritual implications of this connection.

In conclusion, Chapter 3 of "The Way to Rainy Mountain" by N. Scott Momaday illuminates the profound significance of dogs in Kiowa culture, showcasing their role as protectors, guides, and companions for the tribe. Through a blend of myth, history, and personal reflection, Momaday crafts a narrative that celebrates the timeless bond between humans and animals, highlighting the enduring power of connection and kinship. The chapter's structure and storytelling techniques effectively convey the book's overarching themes of tradition, heritage, and the intersection of past and present.