Moon of the Crusted Snow

Do the circumstances presented in Moon of the Crusted Snow provide any justification for cannibalism? The author seems to make a distinction between Anishinaabe views on cannibalism and those of white people, via comments by both Evan and Scott. Why do you think the author implies that for the Anishinaabe the practice is more forbidden than for others? The author strongly hints that Scott and his cronies are consuming flesh, but it is never actually confirmed in the story. Does the author intend for this to be an open question? What purpose does cannibalism serve in the narrative? What might it symbolize?

Teaching Suggestion: Discuss the significance of shock value in storytelling. What are some other shocking examples that defy societal norms (e.g., mass-produced humans in Brave New World by Aldous Huxley)?

Rather than discussing the morality or ethics of cannibalism, some students might benefit from viewing the place of cannibalism in the natural world. Cannibalism occurs among many species of insects and animals, and some human societies have engaged in it for reasons having nothing to do with hunger or criminal intent. Is the modern taboo against cannibalism logical from a scientific perspective? Why or why not?

• “Is Cannibalism More Natural Than We Think?” from BBC Science Focus is a short article about cannibalism from a scientific perspective.