The myth of Pocahontas' life doesn't compare much to the reality of what she experienced, but that doesn't mean her story has any less meaning. Pocahontas' upbringing has many similarities to that of other young Powhatan females, but many of her experiences, particularly as she ages, differ greatly from the lives of other young Native women. Through Camilla Townsend's analysis in her book Pocahontas and the Powhatan Dilemma, a more developed picture of her life is painted to show the ways in which she was a typical and exceptional young Powhatan woman. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Pocahontas' early life reflects those of many girls around her. He received the name Amonute in a village ceremony and earned his commonly known name at the age of ten. She had the same expectations in helping with the work: she took care of the younger children and worked together with other women in farming, cooking, harvesting and cleaning. He heard many of the same stories as the village elders and also learned about their gods and history. In short, Pocahontas was immersed in the same culture as the other Powhatan women because that is what she was raised in, regardless of her close relationship with the leader of so many groups. Of course, Pocahontas' life ultimately included a number of experiences that typical Powhatan women would not. At ten years old she was sent as her father's representative to the English fort and played a role in many exchanges that took place between the opposing groups. In his first visit at that young age, he managed to negotiate the release of a prisoner, something many could not expect to do. She also experienced captivity as one of the colonizers' most prized prisoners. Although kidnapping was supposedly common among his people, the experience he had stands out in its value to the English. Furthermore, she knew that her father hadn't offered enough to save her. In addition to these, Pocahontas also accepted a new religion and a new name, probably as fulfillment of a treaty. And finally he went to England. Compared to typical Powhatan women, most of these experiences were not very common. Her role in the dilemma between the Powhatan groups and the English colonizers really makes her stand out. It makes it exceptional. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Overall, Pocahontas' story aligns well with and stands out from the experiences of other women like her. Townsend illustrates this very well throughout his book, and while these similarities and differences are obvious, they build the character of Pocahontas in a realistic and humane way..