Question

Attempt in 120-150 words.

‘No, I will not submit. I will struggle first !’ How does Zitkala – Sa’s resistance reflect her inner strength and identity ?

(Memories of Childhood)

Hint:

Mention hiding under the bed, refusing to conform, being dragged out, and her later role as a writer.

Answer 1

Step 1: Plan the answer:
Explain the act of resistance, show what it says about her identity, and end with her later success.

Step 2: Model answer:
When Zitkala-Sa learns that her long hair is to be cut, she says, 'No, I will not submit. I will struggle first!' She is young and in a strange environment, yet she chooses to resist and hides under a bed to escape the authorities. This shows her inner strength. For her, cutting hair is shameful and goes against her culture, so she refuses to conform despite knowing she is outnumbered. She is dragged out, kicking and scratching, and finally forced to submit. At that moment she loses her spirit, but she triumphs in life as a renowned writer and a voice for Native American children who suffered similar injustices. Her early defiance thus becomes a symbol of every child forced to give up a heritage.

Final Answer:
Her resistance shows courage and pride in her cultural identity.