'The Orphan Boy And The Elk Dog'

Coming of age was a topic that we explored greatly in our literature discussion this semester. “The Orphan Boy and the Elk Dog” by the Blackfeet Native American tribe portrays all the aspects that come with a Rite of Passage theme. Rite of Passage can be defined as a transition from childhood to adulthood in the eyes of the culture. Elements of the coming of age theme include: having a mentor, overcoming obstacles, and facing fear. “The Orphan Boy and the Elk Dog” is story that comes from Native Americans of the Great Plains of North America. Originally, most Plains Indians were farmers and “had only dogs to carry their bundles” (485). The Rite of Passage theme is used in this story through the character, Long Arrow, who wants to prove himself to the tribe by getting Elk Dogs, or horses, for the tribe.

Long Arrow’s grandfather is his mentor. First, Good Running gives Long Arrow the idea of going after the Elk Dogs since Long Arrow wanted to prove to the tribe that his grandfather was wise for adopting him. Along with the idea to go after the Elk Dogs, Good Running provides specific directions for him to follow. A mentor guides a pupil in the right direction and this clearly shows Good Running showing him the way to gain pride. Also, “Good Running [loads] his best travois dog with all the things Long Arrow would need for traveling” (487). He also gave him medicine, his shield, and his bow. This clearly shows Good Running offering help to Long Arrow as a mentor usually would. All in all, it is clear Good Running was Long Arrow’s mentor for his