Part 1: The Young Trapper, Chapters 1 through 5 Summary and Analysis

Chapter 1: The Making of a Legend

In May 1847, Crow Indians kill and scalp John Johnston's pregnant wife. His anger drives him to lengths that most people could not understand. For many years afterward he is bent on killing and scalping Crow Indians—and eating their livers raw. In Johnston's mind, his actions are ones of revenge coupled with principal. Even though Johnston has unpleasant run-ins with other Indian tribes, he reserves this barbaric act for just the Crow. Johnston is not insane or inhuman—his story is much more complex. He has an undeniable respect for great warriors of Indian tribes. As unbelievable as it may seem, Johnston ultimately gives up his vendetta and becomes a brother-in-arms of the Crow.

Chapter 2: The Hair Merchants

Young John Johnston travels north...