The Song of Hiawatha Summary & Analysis

About Poem: The Song of Hiawatha

Poem Title	The Song of Hiawatha
Author	Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Date written	1855
Date published	1855
Type of poem	Epic poem
Form	Narrative poem written in trochaic tetrameter
Structure	22 chapters, divided into two parts
Genre	An epic poem with elements of folklore and legend
Setting	The Great Lakes region of North America
Main Character	Hiawatha, a legendary Native American hero
Themes	Mythology, nature, love, the human spirit, and culture
Tone	Romantic, epic, and often melancholic
Narrative Style	Third-person omniscient perspective
Key Message	Celebrates Native American culture, nature, and the human spirit.
Influences	Draws inspiration from Native American legends and folklore
Literary Techniques	Utilizes anapestic tetrameter and alliteration

Themes: The Song of Hiawatha

The themes of “The Song of Hiawatha” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

1. Nature and Spirituality ➤ The poem explores the deep connection between nature and the spiritual world.
2. The Hero’s Journey ➤ It tells the story of Hiawatha’s adventures and growth as a hero.
3. Unity and Community ➤ The poem emphasizes the power of people coming together for a common purpose.
4. Romantic Love ➤ It touches on the theme of romantic love and relationships, especially Hiawatha’s love for Minnehaha.
5. Cultural Preservation ➤ The poem highlights the importance of preserving and passing down Native American culture and heritage.

The Song of Hiawatha Summary & Analysis

The Song of Hiawatha” is an epic poem written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, first published in 1855. It is a narrative poem that draws upon the legends and folklore of the Ojibwa (Chippewa) and other Native American tribes. The poem is divided into twenty-two cantos, and each canto tells a part of the story of Hiawatha, a Native American hero, and his adventures. Below is a detailed stanza-wise summary of this renowned poem:

Cantos 1

The poem begins with an introduction to the Native American hero Hiawatha, whose name means “He Makes Rivers.” Hiawatha is portrayed as a wise and noble figure who brings peace and prosperity to his people. The canto sets the tone for the epic, emphasizing Hiawatha’s role as a cultural and spiritual leader.

Cantos 2

This canto describes Hiawatha’s early years and his mother, Wenonah, who dies in childbirth. Raised by Nokomis, his grandmother, Hiawatha grows up in the wilderness, gaining knowledge of the natural world and its creatures.

Cantos 3

Hiawatha’s childhood is further explored, highlighting his lessons from animals and the environment. The canto reinforces his spiritual connection to nature and the mystical elements of his upbringing.

Cantos 4

In this canto, Hiawatha’s father, Mudjekeewis, is introduced as the West Wind. Their initial meeting is confrontational, but it evolves into a bond of mutual respect and understanding. Mudjekeewis imparts his wisdom to Hiawatha.

Cantos 5

Hiawatha embarks on a spiritual journey of fasting and self-discovery. He goes into the wilderness to fast and seek visions. During this time, he encounters mystical beings, such as Pau-Puk-Keewis, and receives visions that will guide his destiny.

Cantos 6

Hiawatha’s return from his fasting reveals his quest for unity and friendship among the various tribes. He seeks to unite and strengthen his people, calling for a council of tribes.

Cantos 7

In this canto, Hiawatha sets out on a voyage across the waters, meeting and gaining the support of different tribes along the way. The poem explores themes of exploration, diplomacy, and unity among diverse cultures.

Cantos 8

Hiawatha teaches his people the art of fishing, providing for them and ensuring their well-being. This canto highlights his role as a provider and leader, as well as his dedication to his people’s welfare.

Cantos 9

Hiawatha’s encounter with the Pearl-Feather, a mystical being, showcases his courage and resourcefulness. He defeats this powerful adversary, which symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and the hero’s indomitable spirit.

Cantos 10

Hiawatha falls in love with Minnehaha, a beautiful maiden, and they court and marry. Their love story is a central element of the poem, and their union represents the coming together of two different tribes in peace.

Cantos 11

Hiawatha and Minnehaha’s wedding feast is a joyous celebration that symbolizes the harmony and unity that Hiawatha has brought to his people. The wedding feast is a symbol of hope, prosperity, and unity.

Cantos 12

Hiawatha’s encounter with the Son of the Evening Star, who prophesizes his future and his role as a great leader, adds a supernatural and mystical dimension to the poem.

Cantos 13

Hiawatha brings the gift of agriculture to his people, teaching them to plant and cultivate corn. This canto highlights his role as a provider and the development of agricultural practices.

Cantos 14

Hiawatha introduces the art of picture-writing, enabling his people to communicate and record their history and knowledge. This advances their cultural and intellectual development.

Cantos 15

The canto mourns the loss of Minnehaha, who dies in a tragic and touching scene. Hiawatha’s grief is a powerful portrayal of love and loss, and it deepens his character.

Cantos 16

Hiawatha confronts Pau-Puk-Keewis once more, a cunning and mischievous character, leading to a contest of wits and strength. This canto explores themes of perseverance and wisdom.

Cantos 17

The canto continues Hiawatha’s pursuit of Pau-Puk-Keewis, as he seeks to bring this troublesome figure to justice. It highlights Hiawatha’s determination and resourcefulness.

Cantos 18

Kwasind, a powerful but somewhat clumsy figure, meets his end in this canto. His death underscores themes of sacrifice and the cycle of life.

Cantos 19

Hiawatha’s encounter with the ghosts of the departed serves as a reflection on mortality and the spirit world. It explores themes of memory and the continuity of life beyond death.

Cantos 20

The people experience a period of famine, and Hiawatha uses his magical powers to help them. This canto emphasizes Hiawatha’s role as a provider and a spiritual guide.

Cantos 21

This canto introduces the arrival of European settlers, marking a significant shift in the narrative. Hiawatha prophesies the challenges and changes that the future will bring.

Cantos 22

The epic concludes with Hiawatha’s farewell to his people as he departs in a birch canoe. He leaves them with words of wisdom and the promise of his return in times of need.

FAQs: The Song of Hiawatha