The Moccasin Maker

by E. Pauline Johnson

"The Moccasin Maker" by E. Pauline Johnson is a collection of prose works published in the early 20th century. It highlights the experiences and reflections of the author, who was of Mohawk descent, and explores themes of identity, heritage, and the intersection of Indigenous and settler cultures in Canada. The main narrative follows the life of Lydia Bestman, an English girl who navigates a challenging upbringing and ultimately marries George Mansion, a Mohawk Indian chief, as they embrace both their cultures. At the start of the collection, the introductory remarks set the stage for Johnson’s exploration of her mother’s life experiences, filled with both hardship and resilience. The opening chapter depicts young Lydia’s poignant feelings as she departs from England, leaving behind her early home and family dynamics shaped by severity. This backstory lays the groundwork for her journey into the New World, where she encounters George, whose character exemplifies a blend of Indigenous nobility and the struggles against colonial challenges. As the narrative unfolds, readers are introduced to the relationships and dynamics that define Lydia’s life as she reconciles her English heritage with her deepening connection to Indigenous identity through marriage and motherhood.