discussion questions for killers of the flower moon

Jouse Heery

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30-11-2024

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Killers of the Flower Moon: Discussion Questions to Uncover the Depths

David Grann's Killers of the Flower Moon and Martin Scorsese's film adaptation offer a chilling glimpse into a dark chapter of American history: the Osage murders in the 1920s. Beyond the gripping narrative of greed and violence, the story prompts profound reflection on themes of wealth, power, corruption, and the enduring legacy of colonialism. These discussion questions will help you delve deeper into the complexities of this compelling tale.

I. The Osage and Their Wealth:

1. The discovery of oil transformed the Osage Nation. How did this newfound wealth impact their lives, both positively and negatively? Consider the internal divisions and external pressures that arose from their sudden prosperity. Did the wealth ultimately protect or endanger the Osage?

2. How did the U.S. government's policies towards Native Americans, particularly the Osage, contribute to the vulnerability of the tribe? Discuss the historical context of broken treaties, forced assimilation, and the ongoing struggle for self-determination.

3. What role did the system of guardianship play in facilitating the murders? Analyze how this system, designed to protect Osage assets, was instead exploited and manipulated by those seeking to profit from the tribe's wealth.

II. The Crimes and the Investigation:

4. The murders were intricately planned and executed. What elements of the investigation were particularly effective, and what challenges did investigators face? Discuss the limitations of law enforcement at the time and the obstacles presented by corruption and racial prejudice.

5. How did the investigation expose the pervasive corruption within the local and federal governments? Discuss the complicity of various individuals and institutions in the crimes. Who benefited from the silence and inaction?

6. Was Tom White's investigation driven by justice or ambition? Explore the motivations of the key players in the investigation, considering their personal biases and the potential for self-interest.

III. Themes and Legacy:

7. The film explores themes of greed, power, and racism. How are these interconnected in the narrative? Discuss how each theme contributes to the overall story and the tragic consequences for the Osage.

8. Killers of the Flower Moon is a story about the systematic exploitation and dispossession of Native Americans. How does this historical context shape our understanding of the events depicted? Consider the lasting impact of colonialism and its continued relevance in contemporary society.

9. What is the significance of the title, "Killers of the Flower Moon"? How does the imagery connect to the themes of beauty, violence, and the destruction of a culture?

10. What lasting impact did the Osage murders have on the Osage Nation and the broader American landscape? Consider the social, political, and legal ramifications of these events and their relevance today.

IV. Beyond the Narrative:

11. How does the film adaptation compare to the book? Discuss the choices made by Scorsese in translating Grann's work to the screen. What aspects were emphasized or de-emphasized?

12. What are the ethical considerations involved in depicting such a violent and tragic history? How can filmmakers and storytellers responsibly portray sensitive subjects without sensationalizing or trivializing the suffering of victims?

These discussion questions are a starting point; feel free to explore other relevant themes and perspectives that emerge from your engagement with Killers of the Flower Moon. The story’s enduring power lies in its ability to prompt critical examination of the past and its lasting consequences.