This dissertation examines the activities of hunting and exchange and how they are thought about by the northern Quebec Cree of Wemindji. The activities of material production are generated in the dialectical relation of experience to Cree structures of thought. Reciprocity amounts to a paradigm for Cree thought, informing models of both ecological and social relations. The effect of material relations on structural transformations is viewed in discursive genres of several levels, ranging from everyday dialogue to mythico-ritual symbolism. Special attention is paid to four categories of "persons" which have been of consuming interest to the natural and social science of the Crees: Canada geese, black bears, Crees, and "White Men".

This study examines the foundation of contemporary Cree performance, tracing its existence to traditional Cree narratives. Contained within traditional Cree stories is the trickster, Wasakaychak. These oral stories are shared collectively, providing the community with relevant cultural knowledge. The thesis concludes that contemporary Cree playwrights and performers such as Shirley Cheechoo and Margo Kane maintain the roles of traditional storytellers because their work informs its audience about the history of the land and also comments on the state of the community. This study further demonstrates how the mythological character, Wasakaychak, remains an active part of Cree society by examining his significance within Tomson Highway's plays, The Rez Sisters and Dry Lips Oughta Move to kapuskasing. / v, 107 leaves ; 28 cm.

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