Benevolent Bears

These ursine heroes and heroines often serve as the blessing of many a childhood.

A recurring theme in children's stories, fairy tales, and the fantasy genre, Benevolent Bears, also known as Friendly Bears, are heroes and heroines who can be real bears or teddy bears. They can be the main protagonists, gentle giants, sidekicks, and even caretakers.

Although they are usually cuddly and kind, Benevolent Bears can be clumsy, arrogant, grumpy, temperamental, overeat, and often not know their own strengths. But nevertheless, they are also compassionate, empathetic, fiercely protective of the ones they love, and know how to facilitate a good time. Benevolent Bears can also serve as Comic Relief.

Noteworthy Examples

 * Winnie the Pooh
 * Baloo (The Jungle Book)
 * Ernest (Ernest and Celestine)
 * Kenai, Koda and Nita (Brother Bear 1 and 2)
 * Elinor the Bear (Brave)
 * Corduroy