Question

What efforts did Zitkala-Sa make to save her hair from being cut ? (Memories of Childhood)

Hint:

• Focus on the verbs "crept," "crawled," "kicked," and "scratched" to show the intensity of her resistance.
• Explain *why* she resisted (cultural beliefs) to provide a complete thematic answer.

Answer 1

Concept:
• In many Native American cultures, long hair is a symbol of bravery and identity, whereas short hair is associated with mourning or cowardice.
• Resistance against forced assimilation is a central theme in Zitkala-Sa's narrative.

Step 1: Describe the initial attempt to hide
When Zitkala-Sa learned her hair was to be "shingled," she disappeared unnoticed. She crept up the stairs and hid in a large, dark room filled with beds, crawling under the one furthest from the door in a corner.

Step 2: Detail the physical resistance during capture
Despite her efforts to remain silent, she was discovered and dragged out. She resisted by kicking and scratching wildly as she was carried downstairs and tied fast to a chair.

Step 3: Conclude with the result of her struggle
Even when she was caught, she continued to cry and shake her head in protest until her "heavy braids" were finally cut off, symbolizing her loss of spirit and cultural connection.