55 pages • 1 hour read
The Song of Hiawatha
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Book Brief
The Song of Hiawatha
Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | Published in 1855238
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
America • Pre-Colonial
1855
Adult
14-18 years
Super Short Summary
The Song of Hiawatha is an 1855 epic poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow that blends Indigenous and Western influences to tell the story of Hiawatha, a mythic Ojibwe hero, as he embarks on various adventures and unites his people. The poem explores themes of nature, spirituality, and love, embedded in a rich tapestry of American myth and legend. Descriptions of settlers and assimilation may be sensitive for some readers.
Nostalgic
Melancholic
Fantastical
Inspirational
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s The Song of Hiawatha is celebrated for its lyrical beauty, rich use of Native American themes, and rhythmic mastery. However, it faces criticism for cultural appropriation and historical inaccuracies. While captivating, some may find the epic's pace slow and its portrayals dated. Overall, a notable work in American literature.
Who Should Read The Song of Hiawatha?
Readers who appreciate epic poetry, Native American folklore, and rich, rhythmic narration will enjoy The Song of Hiawatha by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Fans of Longfellow's work or titles like The Iliad by Homer and Beowulf will find similar enjoyment in this timeless tale.
Nokomis
Nokomis
Hiawatha's wise and loving grandmother who raises him and imparts essential life lessons and traditional knowledge.
Minnehaha
Minnehaha
A beautiful and gentle woman from a neighboring tribe, known for her kindness and connection with nature, whose relationship with Hiawatha is central to the story.
Gitche Manito
Gitche Manito
The benevolent and powerful spirit considered the Great Spirit or creator by the tribes, who plays a role in guiding and influencing the characters.
Chibiabos
Chibiabos
A close friend of Hiawatha, known for his musical talent and gentle nature, who provides companionship and support.
Iagoo
Iagoo
An elder storyteller known for his imaginative tales and deep knowledge of tribal lore, who shares important stories and lessons with the community.
Pau-Puk-Keewis
Pau-Puk-Keewis
A mischievous and clever character with a talent for dancing and playing tricks, who is both a friend and a source of challenges for Hiawatha.
238
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
America • Pre-Colonial
1855
Adult
14-18 years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.