Alternate Forms of Books

Pictures as Stories

I found it very interesting seeing the robe with pictures in this second microlecture. When I went to archives and special collections, I looked at a book that was very similar: it had a series of pictures that, when read in a certain order, told the story of a man's life. To me, it made almost no sense without detailed explanations, as I don't have the understanding and context necessary to interpret the colors and symbols. It's impressive how these pictographs can represent so much and even more impressive to me how people can interpret and understand these types of stories. I also find it very interesting how these pictures are limiting to me, but with proper knowledge they are more effective and descriptive than words.

Clothing as Stories

I also found it fascinating how something as common as clothes can convey a story. Especially with the wampum belt, something that seems purely decorative for an outsider can have so much meaning with context. To me, my clothes have little more significance than something I wear to keep warm, so I find it amazing that clothes can have so much significance and can represent things as important as peace between nations.