Amarok is the name of a gigantic wolf. It is said to hunt down and devour anyone foolish enough to hunt alone at night. Unlike real wolves who hunt in packs, Amarok hunts alone. Stories of Amarok have been shared from Greenland to Labrador, varying in different circumstances but all agreeing upon every principal point. Amarok has been known as a benevolent guardian, dangerous predator, or test of strength with a moral tendency, bringing before us the idea of a superior power protecting the helpless, and avenging mercilessness and cruelty. It was also known that Amarok would pick off sick caribou when the herds get too large. This helps the herds grow in strength and be better sources of food for the Inuit.
Katherine Takpannie gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the City of Ottawa.
