American Indian vs. White Stereotypes in Contemporary American Society

Abstract

The aim of my thesis is to analyze a number of stereotypes with the help of literary and cinematic works, concerning contemporary American Indian societies in the United States. In the first chapter, I explain my understanding of the term “stereotype” and what it means in different contexts. The second and third chapters provide insight into some contemporary movies that integrate Native American misconceptions, and that also de- and reconstruct them. My thesis also seeks to find answers to the reappearing questions concerning the depiction of American Indians in popular media. I also highlight how these stereotypes affect mainstream American society’s current approach to American Indians. So to summarize, my thesis points out how steretypes have been used against American Indians in the US during the course of history, as well as examining its effects on present-day American Indian societies.