Reading and Writing the Lakota Language - Softcover

Albert White Hat Sr.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0874805724 ISBN 13: 9780874805727

Publisher: University of Utah Press, 1999

Synopsis

Based on extensive research and pedagogy on the Rosebud Reservation, this elementary grammar of Lakota, one of the three languages spoken by the Sioux nation, is the first written by a native Lakota speaker. It presents the Sicangu dialect using an orthography developed by Lakota in 1982 and which is now supplanting older systems provided by linguists and missionaries. This new approach represents a powerful act of self-determination for Indian education.

Though Reading and Writing the Lakota Language is thorough in its inclusion of conjugation, syntax, and sentence, it emphasizes vocabulary and pronunciation. Author Albert White Hat Sr. presents Lakota philosophy as it applies to specific grammar lessons. Moreover, he documents the impact of the acculturation process on the language, showing how Lakota evolved as a result of non-Indian influences. The textual example offers new information and interpretation of Lakota society, even to scholars who specialize n Plains cultures. Beyond language instruction, readers will value the book for its cultural insights, humorous stories, and its entertaining tone.

About this title

About the Author

 Albert White Hat, Sr. is a professor at Sinte Gleska University.

Excerpt. © Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved.

It is easy to confuse the distinction between male and female speech. In recent times, many visitors have come to the reservation who attempted to use greetings and acknowledgments without learning the proper usage from local Lakota speakers. One time, in an inipi ceremony (a purification ceremony), a woman was visiting the lodge. Every time the Medicine Man prayed or made a comment, she responded loudly, "Hau, hau," instead of saying, "To!" or "Haye!" like the other women. As the Medicine Man continued with his prayers, he expressed a message from the spirits and this woman responded loudly, saying, "Hokahe," a male expression meaning "Let's go. It's time to start." The Medicine Man couldn't control himself any longer. He started to laugh and almost forgot to convey the rest of the messages.

Edition details

• Publisher: University of Utah Press
• Publication date: 1999
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0874805724
• ISBN 13: 9780874805727
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 240
• Editor: Jael Kampfe