ABSTRACT

Examining four of Lee Smith's mountain novels from the point of view of cultural anthropology, this study show that fragments of the Cherokee heritage resonate in her work. These elements include connections with the Cherokee beliefs regarding medicinal plants and spirit animals, Cherokee stories about the Daughter of the Sun, the corn Woman, the Spear Finger, the Raven Mocker, the Little People and the booger men; the Cherokee concept of witchcraft; and the social position of Cherokee women.

chapter 1|1 pages

Introduction

chapter 1|14 pages

Introduction

chapter 2|25 pages

Nature and Cultural Roots

chapter 3|24 pages

Stories and Cultural Continuity

chapter 4|24 pages

Vashti Cantrell and Ora Mae Cantrell

chapter 6|38 pages

5 APPENDIX: AN INTERVIEW WITH LEE SMITH