Thidwick the Big-Hearted Moose Analysis

Thidwick the Big-Hearted Moose is a young children’s book written in 1948 by the famous children’s author, Dr. Seuss.

The story revolves around a moose by the name of Thidwick, who has his kindness and generosity taken advantage of by the other animals. As he allows more and more creatures onto his antlers, they begin to invite more friends as they pass along. However, this ends up causing much frustration to Thidwick and his antlers become damaged as a result of the overcrowding. He is later hunted by humans who want to have his head mounted at their club. He tries to escape them but his antlers are too heavy. However, he realizes it is time for him to shed his antlers and so he shakes off all the creatures and reunites with his herd.

The most important message of the story is to not let oneself be taken advantage of. Thidwick tries to help as many creatures as he can, but eventually they abuse his kindness so much that he cannot take it anymore. This is conveying to young children to know when they are being manipulated by others.

Further, Seuss is also depicting the selfish nature of individuals. The creatures do not care that Thidwick is starving and cannot swim across the river unless he gets them wet, yet they do not care. He is so big-hearted that he still does not cross the river. The creatures are meant to symbolize those in the world that have no respect and are not grateful for the things they are given.