Summary of English Vistas Memories of Childhood Class 12
Memories of Childhood – Summary
By Zitkala-Sa and Bama
“Memories of Childhood” is a poignant and thought-provoking account of two autobiographical episodes written by Zitkala-Sa, a Native American writer and activist, and Bama, a Tamil Dalit writer. Though they come from different cultural backgrounds, their narratives echo a shared experience of discrimination, marginalization, and the pain of growing up in a prejudiced society.
Part I: “The Cutting of My Long Hair” – Zitkala-Sa
Zitkala-Sa’s story describes her traumatic experience as a young Native American girl at a Christian boarding school. Native American children were often taken away from their families and forced to adopt European-American customs. One of the most humiliating moments for Zitkala-Sa was when she was forced to cut her long hair—a symbol of her cultural identity and dignity. In her tribe, cutting hair was considered a mark of cowardice or mourning.
She narrates how she resisted the teachers by hiding under a bed, only to be dragged out and forcibly have her hair cut. She felt stripped of her self-respect and individuality. This act of cultural violence shows how colonizers tried to erase Native American identity in the name of education and civilization. Zitkala-Sa’s experience is a painful reminder of the deep scars left by racial oppression and forced assimilation.
Part II: “We Too Are Human Beings” – Bama
Bama, a Tamil Dalit girl, shares a powerful incident from her childhood that made her aware of caste-based discrimination in Indian society. One day, she saw an elder from her community carrying a packet of food by a string, not touching it with his hands, and delivering it to a man from an upper caste. She found it funny at first, but her brother explained that the elder had to act this way because of untouchability, and if he touched the food, it would be considered impure by the upper caste man.
This realization deeply shocked and angered Bama. She became aware of the unjust treatment and humiliation that her community endured daily. Her brother advised her that education was the only way to fight this inequality. Motivated by his words, Bama focused on her studies, excelled in school, and eventually became a writer and social activist. Through her writing, she continues to raise her voice against caste oppression.
Common Themes and Message
Both accounts highlight how social injustices and discrimination are embedded in systems of race (in America) and caste (in India). Despite being young girls at the time of their experiences, both authors display immense strength and resilience. They do not succumb to the humiliation but instead choose to resist—Zitkala-Sa by preserving her cultural pride and Bama by using education as a tool for empowerment.
The title “Memories of Childhood” aptly reflects how childhood experiences shape our understanding of society and identity. The stories emphasize the importance of dignity, equality, and the need to challenge discrimination through awareness and action.
Summary of English Vistas Memories of Childhood Class 12
