Big Red

Red’s character is a symbol of loyalty. As soon as Danny meets Red in Chapter 1, he knows there is something different about this dog. Red doesn’t behave like Ross’s hound dogs and immediately attaches himself to Danny’s side. Later that night, Red runs away from the estate to find Danny. He shows up on Danny’s doorstep and waits for him to emerge. Red’s behaviors at the start of the novel foreshadow the close, trusting bond that he and Danny will develop.

Red protects, cares for, and attends to Danny throughout Danny’s adventures in the Wintapi. Since Red is an intelligent dog, he knows which situations are risky for him. Even when his own life is in danger, Red stays by Danny’s side. He doesn’t abandon Danny when he gets trapped under the deer, when they’re followed by the wolverine, or when they face Old Majesty in Chapter 12. Red’s character teaches Danny about friendship, and deepens his understanding of connection, companionship, and loyalty to animals and humans alike. 

The legendary bear, Old Majesty, is symbolic of power. The bear is also a narrative device used to create tension throughout the novel. The bear has stalked the Wintapi wilderness for many years, and everyone in the surrounding region knows to fear him.