Often, the main characters are tribal elders. They are seen as the keepers of wisdom and are respected in the stories. Their decisions and actions usually have a great impact on the tribe.
Animals also play a major role as main characters in many of these stories. For instance, the eagle might be a symbol of strength and freedom, and stories about it can teach important lessons. The coyote is another common character, sometimes depicted as a trickster figure, which adds an element of humor and moral lessons.
I'm not entirely sure as I haven't read it recently, but usually in such novels, there would be a strong Native American protagonist who represents the community's values and struggles. Maybe there's an elder figure too, who is the keeper of the traditional knowledge.
One main theme is cultural identity. Zitkala Sa explores what it means to be a Native American in a world that is increasingly dominated by white culture. She shows how Native Americans held onto their identity despite the pressures to conform.
The themes in American Indian short stories are diverse. Some deal with family and community values, showing how important these aspects were in their society. Others might focus on the struggle against external forces, like the encroachment of settlers. Overall, they offer a unique perspective into a rich and complex culture.
In the Ramayana, Rama is a main character, he is the prince and an avatar of Vishnu. His wife Sita is also very important, known for her purity. Lakshmana, Rama's brother, is loyal and helps Rama throughout his journey. Hanuman, the monkey - god, is famous for his strength and devotion to Rama. In the Mahabharata, the Pandavas like Yudhishthira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadeva are main characters, as well as the Kauravas led by Duryodhana. Krishna, who is an incarnation of Vishnu, is a central figure in guiding the Pandavas.
Often, there are wise old sages as main characters. They are the keepers of knowledge and traditions.
In the Ramayana, Rama, Sita, and Hanuman are main characters. Rama is the noble prince, Sita is his virtuous wife, and Hanuman is the powerful monkey god who helps Rama in his quest.
In Cherokee Indian stories, there are many main characters. For example, the Thunder Beings are significant. They are powerful entities associated with storms and are often seen as both fearsome and necessary for the balance of nature. There's also the Uktena, a large and magical serpent that plays important roles in some tales, often guarding treasures or having special powers.
There could be tribal chiefs as main characters. They were leaders and decision - makers in their tribes.
Often, brave warriors are main characters. For example, in many stories, there are young braves like the one in the hunting story I mentioned before. They are usually depicted as strong and resourceful.
There could be a wide range of main characters. It might be a young Indian woman trying to break free from traditional gender roles. For instance, she could be fighting for an education or a career in a male - dominated society.