Re-Reading Ishi's Story: Interpreting Representation in Three Worlds

Through a critical analysis of Theodora Kroeber's 1961 book, Ishi in Two Worlds: A Biography of the Last Wild Indian in North America, this book offers a manifesto that gives Ishi a voice he never had in Kroeber's book and imagines an Ishi who was not the happy warrior. The author follows the story line in Kroeber's book, focusing on key events as recounted by Alfred Kroeber and his associates. The concluding chapters address repatriation practices, genocide, Indigenous ethics, discourses of forgiveness, and a performance autoethnography ethic for this new century.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 10 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Rereading Ishi's Story: A Critical Examination of Theodora Kroeber's 1961 Book, Ishi in Two Worlds: A Biography of the Last Wild Indian in North America

Through a meticulous and critical analysis of Theodora Kroeber's 1961 book, Ishi in Two Worlds: A Biography of the Last Wild Indian in North America, this book offers a manifesto-like exploration. The central focus of the analysis revolves around a five-play cycle, intricately constructed around Gerald Vizenor's trickster-survivance model. This innovative approach grants Ishi a voice that was previously lacking in Kroeber's narrative, portraying him as a complex and multifaceted individual rather than the simplistic portrayal of a "happy warrior." The author meticulously follows the storyline as recounted by Alfred Kroeber, Saxton Pope, and Thomas Waterman, delving into key events that shaped Ishi's life.

Chapter 1 presents Ishi's story in his own words, offering a firsthand account of his experiences. Chapter 2 retells the narrative of his capture, which includes the recording of his captivating story about wood ducks. Chapter 3 builds upon the stories told about Ishi by Zumwalt Jr., providing further insights into his life and character. Chapter 4 criticizes Kroeber and his associates for compelling Ishi to return to his homeland, urging him to "play Indian." Chapter 5 delves into Ishi's tragic death and the subsequent recovery of his brain, shedding light on the scientific and ethical considerations involved in such endeavors.

The concluding chapters of this book address a range of important topics, including repatriation practices, genocide, Indigenous ethics, discourses of forgiveness, and a performance autoethnography ethic for this new century. By returning to the Kroebers and their autoethnographic practices, the author seeks to explore the complexities and challenges of representing and understanding Indigenous cultures.

This book is a significant contribution to the field of Native American studies, anthropology, and qualitative inquiry. It will captivate scholars and students alike, offering a fresh perspective on the life and legacy of Ishi, the last wild Indian in North America. Through its critical examination of Kroeber's work and the use of innovative analytical frameworks, this book provides valuable insights into the complexities of cultural representation, identity, and the ongoing struggles of Indigenous peoples.

Weight: 228g
Dimension: 154 x 234 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367687472