Totem is a term that is often used to describe a symbol or object that represents a group of people or a particular culture. It is a common theme in literature, art, and mythology, and is often used as a way to convey deeper meanings and messages. In many cases, totems are used as allegories, which are stories or narratives that have a hidden meaning or message.
Allegories are a powerful tool for conveying complex ideas and themes, and totems are often used as a way to create these allegories. By using a totem as a symbol, writers and artists can create stories that convey deeper meanings and messages, often about the human condition or the nature of society. For example, the totem pole is a common symbol in Native American art, and is often used as an allegory for the history and traditions of the people who created it.
Understanding the meaning and significance of totems and allegories is an important part of understanding the role that they play in literature, art, and culture. By exploring the ways in which totems are used as allegories, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the power of storytelling and the ways in which it can help us to understand the world around us.
Understanding Totem Symbols
Cultural Significance
Totems are symbols that are deeply rooted in the culture of many indigenous peoples. They are often used to represent a particular clan or family, and are believed to have spiritual significance. The use of totems is not limited to Native American cultures, as totems can also be found in African, Asian, and Australian Aboriginal cultures.
Common Totem Animals
Many totems are represented by animals, which are believed to possess certain qualities that are important to the group or individual they represent. Some common totem animals include the bear, eagle, wolf, and turtle. The bear is often associated with strength and courage, while the eagle is seen as a symbol of freedom and power. The wolf represents loyalty and teamwork, and the turtle is associated with wisdom and longevity.
Interpreting Totem Poles
Totem poles are a common form of totemic art, and are often used to tell stories or convey important messages. Each symbol on a totem pole represents a different aspect of the story being told. For example, a totem pole might include a bear, which represents strength and courage, and a wolf, which represents loyalty and teamwork. The order in which the symbols appear on the totem pole is also important, as it can indicate the importance of each symbol in the story.
Overall, totem symbols are an important part of many indigenous cultures, and are deeply rooted in their spiritual beliefs and traditions. By understanding the cultural significance of these symbols, we can gain a greater appreciation for the rich diversity of human culture.
Totem as Allegory
Historical Context
Totem by Thomas King is a short story that discusses the conflict between First Nation people and the dominant Western culture in Canada. The story must be understood as an allegory of the strained relationship between Western culture and First Nation culture in Canada — before and today. The story is set in the 1960s, a time when the Canadian government was actively trying to assimilate First Nation people into Western culture through the Indian Act. The story reflects the tension and conflict between these two cultures during this time.
Literary Devices in Allegory
The story uses various literary devices to convey its allegorical meaning. The totems in the story are personified and given the ability to make sounds, move, and express emotion. The distinct sounds they make throughout the story are meant to represent specific emotions and reactions to their experience in conflict with the Canadian government. The totems, therefore, serve as a symbol for the First Nation people and their struggle to maintain their cultural identity in the face of Western assimilation.
The museum in the story also serves as a symbol for the land that has been taken from the First Nation people. The Director and Staff of the museum represent the Canadian government and their attempts to control and manipulate the narrative of First Nation history. The story’s protagonist, Walter, represents the First Nation people and their struggle to resist assimilation and maintain their cultural identity.
Overall, Totem is a powerful allegory that reflects the historical and ongoing struggle between Western culture and First Nation culture in Canada. The story’s use of literary devices serves to highlight the complexity and nuance of this struggle and the importance of cultural identity and resistance.
Analyzing Totem Allegories
Character Analysis
In Totem, the characters are used to represent different ideas and concepts. The protagonist, for example, is often seen as a symbol of hope and perseverance. Meanwhile, the antagonist is often seen as a symbol of oppression and greed. By analyzing the characters in Totem, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the allegory’s underlying themes and messages.
Symbolism in Totems
Totems are used throughout the allegory to represent different ideas and concepts. For example, a totem may represent a particular animal or natural element. By examining the different totems used in the allegory, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the symbolism at play. Additionally, the use of totems can help readers to better understand the themes and motifs present in the allegory.
Themes and Motifs
The themes and motifs present in Totem are numerous and complex. Some of the most prominent themes include the struggle for power, the importance of community, and the relationship between nature and humanity. Meanwhile, some of the most common motifs include animals, natural elements, and cultural symbols. By analyzing the themes and motifs present in Totem, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the allegory’s underlying messages and meanings.
Totem in Modern Context
Totem in Literature
In modern literature, the concept of totem is often used as an allegory to represent a person’s identity, beliefs, and values. For example, in Margaret Atwood’s novel “The Blind Assassin,” the protagonist’s totem is a blue iris, which represents her individuality and uniqueness. Similarly, in the novel “The Clan of the Cave Bear” by Jean M. Auel, the main character’s totem is a cave bear, which symbolizes her strength and courage.
Totem in Film and Media
Totems are also frequently used in films and other forms of media as symbols of identity and belonging. In the movie “Avatar,” the Na’vi people have a totemic connection to the natural world, which is symbolized by their bond with the flying creatures known as banshees. In the television series “Teen Wolf,” the main character’s totem is a werewolf, which represents his power and strength.
Overall, the use of totems in modern literature, film, and media highlights the importance of identity and belonging in contemporary society. By using totems as symbols of individuality and community, these works of art encourage viewers and readers to explore their own identities and connect with others who share similar beliefs and values.
Creating Your Own Totem
Creating a totem can be a fun and fulfilling activity that allows people to express themselves in a unique way. Whether it’s for personal use or as a gift for someone else, designing a totem requires careful consideration of the symbols and meanings that will be incorporated into the design.
Steps to Design a Totem
The following are some steps that can be taken to design a totem:
- Decide on the purpose of the totem. Will it be used for personal or spiritual reasons? Will it be given as a gift to someone else?
- Choose the symbols that will be incorporated into the design. These symbols should be meaningful and relevant to the purpose of the totem.
- Sketch out the design on paper or using a digital tool. This will help to visualize the final product and make any necessary adjustments.
- Choose the materials that will be used to create the totem. This can include wood, stone, clay, or other materials.
- Begin creating the totem, using the design as a guide. Take your time and pay attention to details to ensure a quality finished product.
Choosing Your Symbols
When choosing symbols for a totem, it’s important to consider their meanings and significance. Some common symbols and their meanings include:
- The eagle: represents strength, courage, and freedom
- The bear: represents strength, power, and protection
- The wolf: represents loyalty, family, and teamwork
- The turtle: represents longevity, wisdom, and patience
- The owl: represents wisdom, intuition, and mystery
Other symbols can be chosen based on personal beliefs, experiences, or cultural traditions. By carefully selecting symbols and incorporating them into a totem design, individuals can create a powerful and meaningful work of art.