"The Sign of the Beaver" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

In Elizabeth George Speare's novel, "The Sign of the Beaver," several characters play crucial roles in shaping the story and its themes. The protagonist, Matt, embarks on a journey of self-discovery and survival after being left alone in the wilderness. He forms a bond with Attean, a Native American boy, and their friendship becomes a significant aspect of the narrative. Other characters, such as Saknis, Attean's grandfather, and Matt's family members, also contribute to the development of the plot and its exploration of cultural differences and mutual understanding.

Character Descriptions

Matt

Matt is a twelve-year-old boy who is left alone in the wilderness to guard his family's newly built cabin while his father returns to Massachusetts to collect the rest of the family. He is described as resourceful and intelligent, adapting to the challenges of survival in the wilderness. Matt has fair hair and blue eyes, which make him stand out among the Native Americans he encounters. He is initially cautious and skeptical of the Native Americans but gradually learns their ways and gains their respect.

Attean

Attean is a Native American boy around Matt's age. He belongs to the Penobscot tribe and becomes Matt's friend and teacher during his time alone in the wilderness. Attean is skilled in hunting and survival techniques, and he introduces Matt to the ways of his tribe. He has dark hair and eyes, with a lean and agile build. Attean is initially wary of Matt's presence but eventually forms a deep bond with him, teaching him important lessons about nature and Native American culture.

Saknis

Saknis is Attean's grandfather and an influential member of the Penobscot tribe. He is an elder and holds significant wisdom and knowledge about the ways of their people. Saknis is portrayed as a respected and compassionate figure, guiding both Attean and Matt in their understanding of their respective cultures. Despite the language barrier, Saknis communicates with Matt through actions and gestures, fostering a sense of mutual respect and friendship.

Ben and Mother

Matt's father, Ben, and his mother play minor but important roles in the story. Ben leaves Matt alone in the wilderness to protect the family's cabin, demonstrating his trust in his son's abilities. Matt's mother is concerned for his safety and worries about his well-being while she is away. Although their physical presence is limited, their love and concern for Matt are evident, and they serve as a reminder of his family's values and support.

Attean's Family and Other Characters

Attean's family, including his sister and grandmother, also play important roles in the narrative. They provide insights into the daily life and customs of the Penobscot tribe and contribute to Matt's understanding of Native American culture. The British Captain, Jonathan, and other members of the Penobscot tribe also make appearances, adding depth to the story and highlighting the tensions between Native Americans and European settlers during that period.

Character Traits

Matt

• Resourceful: Matt demonstrates resourcefulness by finding ways to survive in the wilderness and overcome various challenges.
• Curious: He is curious about the Native American culture and is eager to learn from Attean and his family.
• Independent: Matt learns to rely on himself and make decisions without relying on others, as he is left alone in the wilderness.

Attean

• Skilled: Attean possesses impressive skills in hunting, tracking, and survival, which he imparts to Matt.
• Observant: He has a keen eye for details in nature and teaches Matt to observe and appreciate the world around them.
• Proud: Attean takes pride in his Native American heritage and traditions, making him resistant to certain aspects of European culture.

Saknis

• Wise: Saknis is portrayed as a wise and respected elder, offering guidance to both Attean and Matt.
• Patient: Despite the language barrier, Saknis patiently communicates with Matt, fostering understanding and friendship.
• Compassionate: He shows compassion and empathy towards both Matt and Attean, nurturing their friendship and growth.

Character Background

Matt

Matt is the son of settlers who have recently arrived in the wilderness of Maine. He is accustomed to a more structured and settled life in Massachusetts. His father's decision to leave him alone in the wilderness is a test of his abilities and a reflection of the trust placed in him. Matt's background sets him apart from the Native Americans he encounters, highlighting the cultural differences that he must navigate throughout the story.

Attean

Attean's background is deeply rooted in the Penobscot tribe's traditions and customs. He represents the Native American culture that was already present in the wilderness before European settlers arrived. Attean's background provides an opportunity for Matt to learn about and appreciate the Native American way of life.

Saknis

As an elder of the Penobscot tribe, Saknis carries the wisdom and knowledge accumulated over generations. His background and experience make him a respected and influential figure within the community. Saknis' role as Attean's grandfather positions him as a bridge between the Native American culture and Matt's world.

Character Arcs

Matt

Matt's character arc in "The Sign of the Beaver" revolves around his growth and understanding of Native American culture. Initially apprehensive and mistrustful, he gradually overcomes his prejudices and learns to appreciate the different perspectives and values of the Penobscot tribe. Matt's experiences in the wilderness and his friendship with Attean shape his character, teaching him resilience, adaptability, and the importance of cultural understanding.

Attean

Attean's character arc focuses on his friendship with Matt and his own journey of self-discovery. Initially cautious and wary of Matt's presence, Attean learns to trust and respect him. Through their friendship, Attean gains insight into the European settlers' world while fiercely preserving his Native American identity. Attean's character arc highlights the challenges faced by Native Americans during a period of cultural clash and colonization.

Saknis

Saknis serves as a steady presence and mentor to both Matt and Attean. His character arc emphasizes the importance of cross-cultural understanding and empathy. Saknis guides both boys towards mutual respect and friendship, fostering a sense of unity and shared knowledge between their different worlds.

Relationships

Matt and Attean

The relationship between Matt and Attean is at the heart of the novel. Initially marked by skepticism and cultural differences, their friendship grows as they learn from each other. Matt's openness and willingness to understand Attean's culture, and Attean's patience and guidance, create a bond that transcends their differences.

Matt and Saknis

Matt's relationship with Saknis is one of mutual respect and understanding, despite the language barrier. Saknis silently communicates with Matt, teaching him through actions and gestures. The bond between Matt and Saknis highlights the universal language of friendship and compassion.

Matt and his Family

Matt's family, although physically absent for most of the story, play a significant role in his character development. Their love and support are a driving force behind Matt's determination to survive and adapt to the wilderness. Matt's interactions with his family in the beginning and their eventual reunion shape his understanding of home and family values.

Conclusion

"The Sign of the Beaver" presents a rich tapestry of characters who contribute to the story's exploration of cultural differences, friendship, and self-discovery. Matt's journey, guided by Attean and Saknis, leads to a greater understanding and appreciation of Native American culture. Elizabeth George Speare skillfully crafts these characters to navigate the complexities of their respective worlds, illustrating the transformative power of friendship and mutual respect.