# III explained — American Indian Stories

> Chapter companion for American Indian Stories by Zitkála-Šá.

## What happens

The narrator, having become a preacher, attempts to share the Christian message with his people but is publicly denounced by a medicine-man as a traitor for adopting foreign dress and beliefs. The medicine-man's speech turns the community against him, and the people leave, leaving only his father's dwelling behind.

## Themes in this chapter

### Spirituality vs. Christianity

The narrator's attempt to preach Christianity is met with fierce opposition from the medicine-man, who defends traditional beliefs.

### Cultural Displacement and Assimilation

The narrator's adoption of foreign dress and religion is seen as betrayal, highlighting the cultural rift within the community.

## Character check-ins

### Ohiyesa

The narrator, now a preacher, tries to lead his people with the white man's Bible.

### The Great Spirit

Referenced by the medicine-man as the one the narrator has proven false to.

## Key lines

> What loyal son is he who, returning to his father’s people, wears a foreigner’s dress?

The medicine-man questions the narrator's loyalty for adopting white clothing upon returning to his tribe.

_This accusation underscores the theme of cultural betrayal._

> Here is the traitor to his people!

The medicine-man publicly brands the narrator as a traitor.

_This moment seals the community's rejection of the narrator._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/american_indian_stories_se/chapters/iii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/american_indian_stories_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/american_indian_stories_se/chapters