Giants in the Earth was written from the perspective of Norwegian settlers, and its depiction of Native peoples and other groups reflects the assumptions of both the characters and the era in which the book was written. Students increasingly want to examine this dimension critically, asking whose stories are missing or distorted. Grading these essays calls for clear standards that reward careful reading and historical awareness.

A strong critical essay distinguishes between the views of the characters, the narrator, and the author. Students who attribute a settler's attitude directly to the author without analysis risk misreading the text. Encourage them to examine how the novel frames these encounters and what it chooses to include or omit.

Context matters as well. The book was published in the 1920s about events decades earlier, and students should consider how both periods shape its perspective. Essays that bring in reliable historical sources about the region and its peoples tend to be more convincing than those relying on assumptions.

Criteria for critical analysis

Your rubric can reward evidence-based interpretation, historical accuracy, and nuance. A student might argue that the novel reveals settler fear and misunderstanding while offering limited access to the perspectives of those who already lived on the land. That argument is stronger if supported by specific scenes and a clear explanation of the narrative viewpoint.

• Separates character attitudes from narrative and authorial perspective
• Supports claims with specific passages and careful language analysis
• Draws on credible historical sources when making historical claims
• Acknowledges what the text leaves out or silences
• Writes with precision and respect when describing real peoples and events

Setting classroom expectations

Because this topic touches on real communities and histories, set expectations for respectful, evidence-based writing before students begin. Explain that essays will be graded on analysis and accuracy, not on matching a preferred viewpoint. Clear norms protect students and keep the discussion focused on the text.

Provide guidance on terminology so that students use accurate and respectful language. Point them toward reputable resources, including work by Native scholars where possible. This helps them avoid reproducing outdated or harmful phrasing.

Giving constructive, consistent feedback

When a student oversimplifies, ask for evidence and clarification rather than simply marking the argument down. A comment asking where the text supports a claim and how a historian might respond encourages deeper thinking. Feedback should model the habits of mind you want students to develop.

Rubric-aligned tools can help provide consistent first-pass comments while you handle the sensitive judgment calls personally. You decide how to respond to language or interpretations that require human care. Technology supports efficiency, but teachers remain responsible for tone and context.