Black Elk Speaks

What does the circle represent in Lakota religious beliefs? How does the circle impact the structure of Lakota society?  

Throughout the book, Black Elk and several other characters are faced with moments of intense fear. Choose three characters, and compare their relation to fear. Do they overcome it, or do they succumb to it? 

How do the Lakota understand their relation to the natural world? How does this view of nature impact their society and religion?

The book includes several of Black Elk's drawings based on events described in the narrative, including his great vision and the Wounded Knee Massacre. How do the drawings compare with the way the events are described in the text? Is there information the drawings convey that the text does not?

At the end of the book, Black Elk expresses regret over his failure to save the Lakota people, describing himself as “a pitiful old man … [who has] done nothing” (210). Do you agree with Black Elk’s assessment of himself? Why or why not?

In what ways does Lakota society differ from American society? How do these differences lead to conflict between the two groups?

Though the book is presented as a direct transcription of Black Elk’s own words, Neihardt also admits to having edited the transcript for readability. Can the book be trusted as a primary source for information about the Lakota? Why, or why not? 

Research one of the events or battles described in the book, such as the Battle of the Little Bighorn or the Wounded Knee Massacre. How does Black Elk’s description compare with other historical accounts of the event?