A Cycle of the West · Question
How does A Cycle of the West develop the theme of Greed and Materialism?
Answer
A Cycle of the West by John G. Neihardt develops Greed and Materialism across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The lust for wealth—whether from furs, gold, or land—is a central driver of the narrative, corrupting individuals and nations alike and leading to exploitation, betrayal, and environmental devastation.
The trade for beaver pelts and the use of alcohol to 'lubricate the rusty wheels of trade' highlight the commercial motives driving the expedition.
Hugh's temptation to rob the old squaw for her 'priceless spoil' of a tent, flint, steel, kettle, and knife reflects the theme of material desperation and moral conflict.
The lust for gold drives the white invasion, described as 'the lust for gold begetting lust for gold,' and the West is portrayed as a 'siren' luring fortune-seekers.
Evidence in the book
- III: To the Musselshell
The trade for beaver pelts and the use of alcohol to 'lubricate the rusty wheels of trade' highlight the commercial motives driving the expedition.
- III: The Crawl
Hugh's temptation to rob the old squaw for her 'priceless spoil' of a tent, flint, steel, kettle, and knife reflects the theme of material desperation and moral conflict.
- The Song of the Indian Wars
The lust for gold drives the white invasion, described as 'the lust for gold begetting lust for gold,' and the West is portrayed as a 'siren' luring fortune-seekers.
- II: Red Cloud
The white commissioners offer presents and promises, while Man Afraid accuses them of being driven by greed for gold ('the yellow lead').
- III: The Council on the Powder
Sitting Bull criticizes white settlers as 'greedy people' who 'love for endless getting marks them fools,' highlighting the theme of materialism driving conflict.
- VIII: The Yellow God
The 'Yellow God' of gold drives a mad rush of settlers, gamblers, and dreamers, overriding treaties and destroying the land and its original inhabitants.
