ISC English Literature Project: Exploring Cultural Identity and Legacy in "The Medicine Bag"
Title: How Does "The Medicine Bag" by Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve Explore the Themes of
Cultural Identity and Legacy?
English Literature Project:
Index
1. Introduction
2. Main Body
o Section 1: The Theme of Cultural Identity - Page ……..
o Section 2: The Symbolism of the Medicine Bag - Page ……..
o Section 3: Character Development and Legacy - Page ……..
3. Conclusion - Page ……..
4. Bibliography - Page ……..
Introduction
"The Medicine Bag" by Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve is a poignant short story that explores the
interplay of cultural identity, heritage, and personal growth within a Native American context.
The story follows Martin, a young Sioux boy living in a modern urban setting, who grapples
with his Native American heritage when his great-grandfather, Grandpa, visits and passes down
a sacred medicine bag.
This project analyzes how the story addresses the themes of cultural identity and legacy,
focusing on Martin’s journey from embarrassment to pride, the symbolic significance of the
medicine bag, and the intergenerational transfer of values. I chose this topic because it
resonates with universal questions of balancing tradition with modernity, especially relevant in
today’s multicultural societies.
By examining Martin’s character arc, the medicine bag’s symbolism, and Grandpa’s role, this
project argues that Sneve uses the story to affirm the enduring value of cultural heritage in
shaping personal identity. The analysis draws on textual evidence and cultural context to
highlight the story’s depth and relevance.
Section 1: The Theme of Cultural Identity
The central theme of "The Medicine Bag" is cultural identity, depicted through Martin’s
struggle to reconcile his Sioux heritage with his assimilated urban life. Initially, Martin feels
embarrassed by Grandpa’s traditional appearance—his “old, worn, moccasins” and “long, black
hair”—which contrasts with the modern world of his friends, Cheryl and Hank.
This reflects a broader tension faced by Native American youth, caught between ancestral
traditions and contemporary society. Martin’s discomfort is evident when he hesitates to
introduce Grandpa, fearing his friends’ judgment: “I didn’t want them to laugh at Grandpa”.
However, Grandpa’s visit prompts Martin to confront his heritage. His storytelling about Sioux
traditions, such as the vision quest, awakens Martin’s curiosity and pride. By the story’s end,
Martin’s acceptance of the medicine bag signifies his embrace of his Sioux identity.
He declares, “I was proud to wear it, not just for Grandpa, but for myself”), marking a shift
from shame to self-acceptance. Sneve uses this arc to illustrate how cultural identity, though
challenging to maintain in a modern context, provides a sense of belonging and strength.
Analysis: Martin’s journey mirrors the broader Native American experience of navigating
assimilation while preserving cultural roots. Sneve, a Lakota Sioux author, embeds authenticity
in the narrative, drawing on her own heritage to highlight the resilience of indigenous identity
against pressures of modernization. This theme resonates with ISC’s emphasis on exploring
universal human experiences, as Martin’s struggle is relatable to anyone balancing multiple
cultural identities.
Section 2: The Symbolism of the Medicine Bag
The medicine bag serves as a powerful symbol of cultural legacy and spiritual connection in the
story. Described as a “small, leather pouch” containing “a broken piece of iron” and “a pebble
from the butte”, the bag embodies Sioux traditions, linking the wearer to ancestors and the
land. For Grandpa, it represents his life’s journey and spiritual strength, earned through his
vision quest. Its worn condition reflects the enduring yet fragile nature of cultural traditions in
a changing world.
The bag’s transfer to Martin is a pivotal moment, symbolizing the passing of responsibility to
preserve Sioux heritage. Initially, Martin is reluctant, fearing it marks Grandpa’s imminent
death: “I felt a lump in my throat”. However, his eventual acceptance signifies his readiness to
carry forward his ancestors’ values. The bag’s contents—simple, natural objects—contrast with
materialistic modern values, emphasizing spiritual over superficial wealth.
Analysis: The medicine bag functions as a narrative device to bridge past and present,
reinforcing the story’s theme of legacy. Sneve uses it to critique the erosion of Native American
traditions while affirming their resilience through intergenerational transmission. The bag’s
symbolism aligns with literary devices studied in ISC, such as objects carrying deeper thematic
weight, similar to the conch in Lord of the Flies.
Section 3: Character Development and Legacy
Martin’s character development drives the story’s exploration of legacy, as he evolves from a
boy ashamed of his heritage to one who embraces it. Initially, Martin idolizes a romanticized
version of Sioux culture, boasting to friends about “warriors and teepees”, but he shies away
from its reality when confronted by Grandpa’s traditional appearance.
His growth is catalyzed by Grandpa’s wisdom and vulnerability, particularly during the private
moment when Grandpa shares the medicine bag’s significance: “It’s for you now, Martin. It’s
time”.
Grandpa, as a foil, embodies the living legacy of Sioux culture. His frail yet dignified presence—
described as “old, so old” yet “strong in spirit”—teaches Martin that heritage is not about
outward appearances but inner strength. The story’s climax, where Martin wears the medicine
bag after Grandpa’s death, signifies his acceptance of this legacy, ensuring its survival.
Analysis: Martin’s arc reflects the bildungsroman structure, a coming-of-age journey central to
ISC literature studies. Grandpa’s role as a mentor parallel figures like Atticus Finch in To Kill a
Mockingbird, guiding the protagonist toward moral and cultural maturity. Sneve uses their
relationship to underscore the importance of intergenerational wisdom in preserving identity,
a theme that resonates with ISC’s focus on values and human connections.
Conclusion
"The Medicine Bag" resolves the tension between cultural identity and modern life by
depicting Martin’s journey toward embracing his Sioux heritage. The medicine bag symbolizes
the enduring legacy of Native American traditions, bridging past and present through its
transfer from Grandpa to Martin. Martin’s character development—from embarrassment to
pride—illustrates how personal growth can reconcile cultural conflicts.
Sneve’s narrative affirms the resilience of indigenous identity, offering a universal message
about the value of heritage in shaping selfhood. This story is particularly relevant today, as
globalized societies grapple with preserving cultural roots.
Through Martin’s acceptance of the medicine bag, Sneve suggests that legacy is not a burden
but a source of strength, ensuring traditions endure despite modern pressures. This project
highlights the story’s literary and cultural significance, aligning with ISC’s emphasis on
exploring human experiences through literature.
Bibliography
Sneve, Virginia Driving Hawk. "The Medicine Bag." Scholastic Scope, 1975.
Notes and references of Literature Projects @ reyim’s™ Publications.
