The Song of Hiawatha

Set in pre-colonial America, this epic poem explores the life and folklore of Great Lakes tribes through the lens of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's romanticized vision. Drawing from early ethnographic research, it presents a vivid portrayal of Hiawatha and his world, blending traditional Native American legends with European-American imagination. First published in 1855, it received critical acclaim for its lyrical quality and cultural interpretations, making it a significant work in American literature.