Required Reading

1. Read. Bigham, Hiram. Missionaries first intercourse with the Natives. 1820. This reading describing hula in 1820 was written by Hiram Bingham, a 19th century Missionary to Hawai'i. Read these excerpts: the first paragraph of Chapter IV (page 6); p. 123 to the top of p.125.

As you read, take note on how Bingham describes the Hawaiian people, and on how he describes hula. What specific descriptions does he give? What are the implications and connotations of these words and descriptions?

2. View. Professor's Lecture: Hula History, Parts 1.1- 1.4

Recommended Reading

Silva, Noenoe K. "He Kanawai E Ho'opau I Na Hula Kuolo Hawaii: "The Political Economy of Banning the Hula," The Hawaiian Journal of History, v. 34, 2000: pp. 29-48. This reading is for those who are particularly interested in this topic. It gives more details and has more developed analysis in relation to some of the ideas presented in the Professor's lectures.