Analyze the concept of agency in relation to kinship—how does it function within the Dakota community? Pick two characters and discuss their embracing or rejection of personal agency.

In the novel, the Dakotas have brief yet significant dealings with white men. Analyze the Dakotas’ perception of white men and how it changes over time.

There are three main roles for women: wife, perpetual virgin, and promiscuous woman. Discuss these categories of identity and what they say about the community in which they are entrenched.