Muwin the bear is one of the major characters of Wabanaki folklore. In comparison with other animal
spirits, Muwin is portrayed as a strong, honorable figure with impressive magical powers, but often
somewhat gullible and slow-witted, so that he frequently serves as the "straight man," victim, or
butt of the joke for weaker but cleverer tricksters like Rabbit, Wolverine, or Raccoon. In other stories,
Muwin fares better than these animals due to his superior moral qualities.
Some Wabanaki stories feature Muwinskw, Mrs. Bear (sometimes translated as Bear Woman.) She
has much the same characteristics as Muwin (particularly gullibility and good
moral character), but also the fierce maternal instinct that real mother bears in the wild are known for.
In Wabanaki tales, lost or abandoned children are frequently adopted by Muwinskw.
Recommended Books of Related Native American Legends
On the Trail of Elder Brother:
A good book of traditional stories told by a Mi'kmaq author and illustrator.
Giants of the Dawnland:
Another good collection of Wabanaki legends, told by a Penobscot Indian author.
Algonquian Spirit:
Excellent anthology of stories, songs, and oral history from the Mi'kmaq and other Algonquian tribes.
Native American Animal Stories:
American Indian tales about animals, expertly told by Abenaki storyteller Joseph Bruchac.
Native American Indian cultures
How Muin Became Keeper of the Medicines:
Rabbit's Adventure with Mooin, the Bear: 
