Diane Glancy weaves a convincing story of human experiences on the Trail of Tears. Choose 1 or 2 of the main characters and focus on 2 main themes of the book to demonstrate the survival of the people during times of violent upheaval, uncertainty, and despair. Themes can include the importance of land, kinship, community, the loss of masculinity, the power of the spoken word, storytelling, spirituality, and Christianity.
The Unbroken Spirit: Survival on the Trail of Tears
Diane Glancy’s “Pushing the Bear” masterfully portrays the Cherokee people’s resilience during the Trail of Tears, a harrowing journey forced upon them by the U.S. government. The book illuminates the indomitable spirit of the Cherokee people through the lens of its characters and the themes of kinship and community and the power of the spoken word and storytelling.
Kinship and Community:
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Mary: Mary, the protagonist, embodies the strength of the Cherokee community. Despite the immense loss of her family and homeland, Mary’s unwavering love for her remaining relatives and the importance of their survival drive her actions. She navigates the harsh realities of the Trail of Tears, relying on the support of her kin, particularly her niece, Sarah. Their bond serves as a beacon of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Mary’s fierce protectiveness of Sarah, her willingness to sacrifice, and her commitment to keeping their family together even in the face of heartbreak highlight the strength found in familial love and community.
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Sarah: As a young girl forced into a life of displacement, Sarah embodies the community’s adaptability and resourcefulness. Despite her young age, Sarah demonstrates a maturity beyond her years, proving vital to the family’s survival. Sarah’s keen observation of the natural world and her resourcefulness are essential for obtaining food and medicine. Her resilience and unwavering optimism, despite witnessing the brutal realities of the Trail of Tears, showcase the strength of the community and the hope it provides even in times of crisis.
The Power of the Spoken Word and Storytelling:
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Storytelling: Glancy vividly portrays the power of storytelling as a vital tool for maintaining cultural identity and preserving memories in the face of cultural erasure. The Cherokee people use stories to keep alive their traditions, history, and beliefs. The stories are a way to connect with the past, find solace in shared experiences, and offer hope for the future.
The Unbroken Spirit: Survival on the Trail of Tears
Diane Glancy’s “Pushing the Bear” masterfully portrays the Cherokee people’s resilience during the Trail of Tears, a harrowing journey forced upon them by the U.S. government. The book illuminates the indomitable spirit of the Cherokee people through the lens of its characters and the themes of kinship and community and the power of the spoken word and storytelling.
Kinship and Community:
-
Mary: Mary, the protagonist, embodies the strength of the Cherokee community. Despite the immense loss of her family and homeland, Mary’s unwavering love for her remaining relatives and the importance of their survival drive her actions. She navigates the harsh realities of the Trail of Tears, relying on the support of her kin, particularly her niece, Sarah. Their bond serves as a beacon of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Mary’s fierce protectiveness of Sarah, her willingness to sacrifice, and her commitment to keeping their family together even in the face of heartbreak highlight the strength found in familial love and community.
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Sarah: As a young girl forced into a life of displacement, Sarah embodies the community’s adaptability and resourcefulness. Despite her young age, Sarah demonstrates a maturity beyond her years, proving vital to the family’s survival. Sarah’s keen observation of the natural world and her resourcefulness are essential for obtaining food and medicine. Her resilience and unwavering optimism, despite witnessing the brutal realities of the Trail of Tears, showcase the strength of the community and the hope it provides even in times of crisis.
The Power of the Spoken Word and Storytelling:
-
Storytelling: Glancy vividly portrays the power of storytelling as a vital tool for maintaining cultural identity and preserving memories in the face of cultural erasure. The Cherokee people use stories to keep alive their traditions, history, and beliefs. The stories are a way to connect with the past, find solace in shared experiences, and offer hope for the future.
