Black Elk SpeaksBy Daniel, Trystan, Kara, and Josh

CharacterizationBlack Elk- the protagonist; his character is developed in the process of claiming his privileged place as a holy man and healer and the member of the Oglala Sioux. Black Elks Father- Also known as Black Elk was a medicine man and the cousin of Crazy Horse. He is a husband and a father and he was wounded in the Fetterman Fight.

Characterization ContinuedWhite Cow Sees- She is Black Elks mother and suffers the illness that brings his great vision and weeps with happiness when Black Elk returns from battle.Standing Bear- A childhood friend of Black Elk and a Minneconjou Sioux. He was at Black Elks first cure and loyal to him and a brave warrior but not fully developed.

Characterization ContinuedRed Cloud- He was the Sioux Chief negotiated the Treaty of Laramie with the US Government. Shows great concern for the survival of his people.Crazy Horse- Sioux Chief and a holy man. Crazy Horse became one of the bravest warriors. He refused to talk to the white people. He was killed at Fort Robinson because he refused to surrender the knife he was holding.

Point of ViewThe point of view can be described as mixed between John G. Neinhardt and Black Elk. In the novel Neinghardt is interviewing Black Elk about his experiences throughout his life. Neinhardt uses Black Elk words and puts what he believes happened in the novel.

SettingBlack Elk Speaks takes place in Black Hills, South Dakota, and the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation of the Oglala Sioux in South Dakota during the time span of 1866-1890