Bear Stories are told worldwide.
Especially in Northern lands. Where the shuffling creatures were feared, loved and even worshipped.
BEAR STORIES – Bears in Legend, Mythology, Culture & Fiction
It’s one of Aesop’s most beloved Fables. TWO TRAVELLERS AND A BEAR:
Two Men were traveling peacefully in company through a forest. All at once, a BIG Bear crashed out of the brush near them.
One of the Men, thinking of his own safety, climbed a tree.
The other, unable to fight the savage beast alone, threw himself on the ground. He lay still, as if he were dead. He had heard that a Bear will not touch a dead body.
It must have been true, for the Bear snuffed at the Man’s head awhile. And then, seeming to be satisfied that he was dead, walked away.
The Man in the tree climbed down.
“It looked just as if that Bear whispered in your ear,” he said. “What did he tell you?”
“He said,” answered the other, “that it was not at all wise to keep company with a fellow who would desert his friend in a moment of danger.”
They’ve been told for thousands of years, some of those Bear Stories. Especially in Northern Cultures. I love ’em!
To learn more about the cultural origins of Bear Stories from around the world, here’s a Guest Blog from Lisa Jeeves:
“Bear Stories. The Cultural and Mythological Story of Bears”
Summary: Bears captivate wildlife enthusiasts on bear watching tours. But also hold profound mythological significance across various cultures globally. This article explores the deep-rooted reverence and symbolic meanings bears have held throughout history. From ancient legends to modern tales, highlighting their impact on cultural heritage and folklore.
The Cultural and Mythological Stature of Bears
Bear watching tours are a favorite among nature lovers. They offer a chance to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitats across Asia, Europe, America and Canada. Beyond their physical allure, bears carry rich symbolic meanings. And are deeply woven into the fabric of many cultures’ mythologies and folklore.
Global Worship and Mythological Beliefs of the Bear
Historically, bears have been both feared and revered. Anthropologists, including the renowned Joseph Campbell, have noted that bear worship dates back to prehistoric times. Particularly among fishing and hunting tribes. The bear’s depiction in various cultures underscores its importance not just as a physical entity but as a spiritual symbol.
Bear Stories and Europe’s Veneration of Bears
Finland: Bears are considered kin to humans, believed to be the spirits of forefathers. This profound respect is evident as the bear is Finland’s national animal. The Finnish language has multiple names for bears, each reflecting different cultural significances.
Russia: In the Russian fairy tale “Morozko,” a villain punished with a bear’s head symbolizes societal ostracization. Illustrating the bear’s role in teaching moral lessons.
Scotland: The tale “The Brown Bear of Norway” depicts a prince transformed into a bear. Exploring themes of love and transformation beyond physical appearances.
Asian Reverence and Bear Stories
China and Ainu: In these cultures, bears are worshipped and often associated with powerful deities and transformation myths.
Korea: Bears are symbolic animals where legends speak of gods and transformative challenges. Highlighting the bear’s role in cultural and spiritual tests.
Bear Stories: Alpine Legends and Modern Western Narratives
In the Alpine regions, legends like those of St Corbinian and St Romedius depict bears as both tamed beasts and helpers. Thus signifying a harmonious relationship between humans and nature. These stories not only reflect historical attitudes but also underscore a mutual respect and dependency.
In contemporary Western culture, bears continue to be celebrated in classic stories such as “How the Bear Lost its Tail” and “Goldilocks and the Three Bears.”
And modern Animal stories for kids like “Winnie the Pooh,” “Paddington Bear” and “Berenstain Bears.” As well as Bear Stories written for adults like “The Bear That Thought He Was A Dog” by Charles G D Roberts.
And the novels GRIZZLY KING by James Oliver Curwood and GENTLE BEN by Walt Morey. These tales, while entertaining, also impart lessons of respect, boundaries, and harmony with Nature.
The Bear in Cultural Reflection
Reflecting on the bear’s role in mythology and culture enriches our understanding of this animal beyond its physical presence. For those planning to join a bear watching tour, this knowledge adds a layer of depth to the experience. And connects them with the ancient traditions that revered these powerful creatures.
Interesting Stats and Facts:
National Symbol: The bear is Finland’s national animal, reflecting its deep cultural significance in the country. The Finns call it The King of the Forest.
Cultural Depictions: Over 100 different names for bears exist in Finnish. Each with its own cultural context and significance.
Further Reading: Read more about bear mythology, literature and cultural significance. Reputable sources such as Smithsonian Magazine and National Geographic offer extensive insights and research.
In Conclusion
Bears are not only a fascinating subject for wildlife enthusiasts but also a potent symbol in mythology and folklore across the world. Their depiction in various cultures offers a window into human beliefs, values, and the universal reverence for Nature.
Thanks, Lisa, for this wise exploration of Bear mythology!
Did You Like This History of Bear Stories?
If so, you’ve got to read my popular short story “THE BOY WHO WAS RAISED BY BEARS.” A Traditional Native American Animal Story & Folktale Retold.
Talking bears and human children adopted and raised by loving mama bears are common story themes in both Old and New World oral traditions. Even J R R Tolkien wrote about Beowulf and Bear’s Son Tales in European folklore.
“I loved this beautiful Animal Tale. Perfect!” Free to Read ==> CLICK HERE THE BOY WHO WAS RAISED BY BEARS
Lisa Jeeves is an accomplished Author and Online Marketing Manager in London, England. She has been published on Apilogic.com and ArticlesFactory. Her articles include “An Insight into Naturalist Gerald Durrell’s Formative Years in Corfu.” And “Beyond Sightseeing: The People of the Holy Land.”
Animal stories for kids, the bears, Bear Folklore, Bear folktales, bear legends, bear worship, bear animal guide, the three bears.
