Dignity and courage adorn the polar bear in this short story.
Though we often dress to impress, we must remember that dignity and courage are finer adornments than any clothing or jewelry. No matter what we look like, we should always try to be courageous, kind, and dignified in what we do. Such qualities lead to strength of character and wisdom.
Frank Baum conveys this message of dignity, courage, and kindness in his short story “
The King of the Polar Bears.” Through the King Polar Bear’s many trials, Baum shows that appearance does not determine character.
A Renowned King
The King of the Polar Bears lives among the “icebergs in the far north country,” where his strength, wisdom, and kindness are known by everyone. The polar bears revere him and continually consult him about their troubles. The seals greatly fear him and avoid him at all costs, while the seagulls love him because “he leaves the remnants of his feasts for them to devour.” Even the wolves know of him and whisper that this great king is magical, for nothing harms him and his strength continues to increase.
