The Great Bear

Eli, Morgan’s younger brother, is another central character in The Great Bear. He is both a foil and a complement to Morgan, highlighting different aspects of the Indigenous experience. Eli’s journey is characterized by his struggle with bullying and an identity crisis, particularly concerning his Indigenous heritage. He is sensitive and artistic, often using his drawings to express himself and escape the challenges he faces in the foster-care system and at school.

Eli’s character arc is marked by vulnerability and growth. Initially, he is more reserved and introspective, often relying on Morgan for guidance and support. However, as the story progresses, Eli begins to find his own voice and strength. His character’s transformation is most evident in his increasing courage and self-assurance, especially in the face of bullying. Eli’s development is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit.

Eli’s role in the narrative extends beyond his relationship with Morgan. He represents the quieter, more introspective side of coping with cultural displacement and identity formation. His interactions with other characters, particularly in Misewa, reflect his growing confidence and sense of belonging. Eli is crucial in portraying the more subtle, emotional aspects of the Indigenous experience, adding another layer to the novel’s exploration of these themes.

Arik, a secondary character who is a talking squirrel, adds a unique dimension to The Great Bear. Arik’s character is essential in bridging the gap between the human world and the natural world of Misewa. She is a guide and mentor to Morgan and Eli, helping them navigate Askí’s challenges and customs. Her identity as a humanoid animal symbolizes the adaptability and the fluidity of identity.

Arik is characterized by her wisdom, humor, and deep connection to the land and its traditions. Her interactions with Morgan and Eli are often lighthearted yet profound, highlighting her role as a source of knowledge and perspective. Her character embodies the harmonious relationship with nature that is a hallmark of Indigenous worldviews.

Arik remains relatively static in terms of her personal development but plays a dynamic role in the story’s progression. She is instrumental in helping Morgan and Eli understand and appreciate their Indigenous heritage, making her a key figure in their journey of self-discovery.

Muskwa, the Great Bear, is both a literal and metaphorical antagonist in the novel. Initially presented as a formidable and threatening figure, Muskwa undergoes a transformation that mirrors the book’s broader themes. He represents the misunderstood and often vilified aspects of nature, as well as the internal and external conflicts faced by the characters.

Muskwa’s interactions with Morgan and Eli shift from fear and confrontation to understanding and empathy. His character development reflects the novel’s focus on reconciliation, healing, and the complexity of relationships between humans and nature. Initially perceived as the antagonist due to his attacks on Misewa and other villages, Muskwa’s deeper motivations and past are gradually revealed. His initial portrayal as a destructive force contrasts with later revelations of his capacity for kindness and wisdom. This duality in Muskwa’s character challenges the simplistic categorization of good and evil, inviting a more nuanced understanding of nature and his role in the story.

As the narrative progresses, Morgan’s interactions with Muskwa become a pivotal element in her own journey of understanding and forgiveness. Her ability to see beyond his fearsome exterior to the potential for goodness within reflects the power of empathy and understanding in transforming relationships. Muskwa’s eventual transformation from a feared enemy to a respected figure in the community symbolizes the potential for healing and reconciliation, even in the most challenging circumstances.

Mihko, Ochek’s father, is a secondary character whose actions impact the story’s development. As a respected member of the Misewa community, Mihko represents traditional wisdom and the connection to ancestral practices. He is a strong, caring figure, deeply committed to the well-being of his family and community.

Mihko’s interactions with Morgan and Eli are a mix of mentorship and parental guidance. He helps them navigate the challenges they face in Misewa, offering insight into the community’s customs and beliefs. He embodies the values of responsibility, respect for the land, and the importance of community, serving as a bridge between the old ways and the new challenges faced by his people. His character remains relatively steady, providing a grounding presence in the narrative.