The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith Short Essay Answer Key

Short Essay Answer Key

1. Describe the place and time that the novel is set in.

The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith is set in Australia in the year 1900. At the beginning of the novel it is summer, and Jimmie has just gotten married in Wallah.

2. In Jimmie's case, what does it mean to be a "half-breed?"

In Jimmie's case, he is referred to as a "half-breed" because he is the son of a white father and an Aborigine mother.

3. What is the significance of Jimmie's initiation tooth?

With Jimmie's initiation tooth his uncle will be able to lay a tribal claim on Jimmie and thereby save him from his marriage to a white woman.

4. What are we told happened in 1891?

We learn that in 1891 Jimmie was taken from the aborigine camp as a part if his initiation. Jimmie was away for several weeks, and...
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