Pushing the Bear: A Novel of the Trail of Tears

Explain how the text addresses gender roles and relationships within Cherokee culture and the culture of the white settlers.

Discuss the relationship between the Cherokee Nation and the Earth. How does the relationship between the Cherokee people and the land illustrate deeper aspects of their culture?

Explain the significance of the fragmented narrative. How does the use of multiple points of view affect your reading of the novel?

Discuss the relationship between Sergeant Williams and Maritole. How does this relationship compare to her marriage with Knobowtee?

Analyze at least three separate examples to determine the significance of the bear motive within the broader narrative. Why is this image important to Maritole, and how does it relate to Cherokee culture?

Explain the significance of the novel’s overall structure. How does the author utilize multiple perspectives to create a more nuanced view of this historical event? What metaphorical significance do the narratives of the disembodied voices have within this context?

Why is Luthy important to the story? Analyze her connections to Cherokee culture and storytelling to examine her broader role within the text.

How does Glancy incorporate traditional folklore and legends into the novel? What metaphorical messages are these stories meant to convey?