How Skraeling (Qitsualik, 2010) exemplifies the following Indigenous ways of knowing:

relationship with the land, interconnectedness with animals, and intergenerational

transmission of culture. Refer to the reading's characters and events to support your analysis.
Finally, comment on differences you notice between the Indigenous ways of knowing you
exemplified and Western ways of knowing.

In Skraeling, Qitsualik explores Inuit culture and history through the story of a young
Inuit boy named Kannujaq, who is taken captive by Siaraili. Through Kannujaq's
experiences, the story illustrates several key Indigenous ways of knowing, including the
relationship with the land, interconnectedness with animals, and intergenerational
transmission of culture.

Firstly, the relationship with the land is a central theme throughout Skraeling. The Inuit
people have a deep and spiritual connection with the land and the natural world,
viewing it as a living entity that provides for their physical and spiritual needs. This is
evident in the story when Kannujaq, who is knowledgeable about the land, uses his
understanding of the natural environment to navigate and survive in unfamiliar territory.
For example, he knows how to find food and shelter in the harsh Arctic landscape and
how to read the movements of the animals to predict weather changes.

Secondly, the interconnectedness with animals is another important aspect of

Indigenous ways of knowing that is exemplified in Skraeling. Inuit culture sees animals
as spiritual beings that are equal to humans and deserve respect. In the story, Kannujaq
has a deep connection with animals and communicates with them through a
combination of observation, intuition, and spiritual practices. For example, he is able to
form a bond with a wolf pack, which becomes his protector and companion during his
captivity. His interactions with the animals also reflect his understanding of the balance
and harmony that exists between all living beings.

Lastly, the intergenerational transmission of culture is a critical aspect of Indigenous

ways of knowing, and this is also evident in Skraeling. Kannujaq learns from his elders
and ancestors, who have passed down knowledge and traditions through oral
storytelling. His knowledge of the land, animals, and spiritual practices is rooted in the
teachings of his community and is critical to his survival. The story also highlights the
importance of preserving Indigenous knowledge and culture, as Kannujaq's captors
attempt to erase his identity and assimilate him into their own culture.

Overall, Skraeling demonstrates how Indigenous ways of knowing are deeply connected to the
land, animals, and intergenerational transmission of culture. Through the character of Kannujaq,
the story provides a glimpse into the rich and complex worldview of the Inuit people and their
enduring connection to their ancestral lands and traditions.
There are significant differences between Indigenous ways of knowing and
Western ways of knowing. Here are some of the key differences:

1. Relationship with the land: Indigenous ways of knowing are often

grounded in a deep and spiritual connection to the land, whereas
Western ways of knowing tend to prioritize objective knowledge and
scientific methods.
2. Relationship with animals: Indigenous ways of knowing recognize the
interconnectedness of all living beings, including animals, whereas
Western ways of knowing tend to view humans as separate from nature
and prioritize human-centered perspectives.
3. Intergenerational transmission of culture: Indigenous ways of knowing
prioritize the transmission of knowledge and culture through oral
traditions and storytelling, whereas Western ways of knowing tend to
prioritize written documents and academic scholarship.
4. Holistic approach: Indigenous ways of knowing often take a holistic
approach to understanding the world, recognizing the
interconnectedness of physical, spiritual, and emotional aspects of life.
Western ways of knowing tend to separate these aspects and prioritize
objective knowledge over subjective experiences.

These differences reflect fundamental differences in worldview and values

between Indigenous and Western cultures. It is important to recognize and
respect these differences and to find ways to integrate different ways of
knowing and perspectives in order to promote greater understanding and
cooperation.