Character Relationship Map: Dances with Wolves

Characters

• Lieutenant Dunbar (played by Kevin Costner) — protagonist

  Union officer assigned to remote frontier post who befriends Lakota Sioux and adopts their culture.

• Stands With A Fist (played by Mary McDonnell) — protagonist

  Lakota woman who rescues Dunbar, teaches him her language, and becomes his wife.

• Kicking Bird (played by Graham Greene) — supporting

  Wise and diplomatic Lakota chief who welcomes Dunbar and guides his integration.

• Wind In His Hair (played by Rodney A. Grant) — supporting

  Brave Lakota warrior known for his distinctive hairstyle and fierce combat skills.

• Smiles A Lot (played by Nathan Lee Chasing His Horse) — supporting

  Curious and playful Lakota boy who befriends Dunbar and learns English quickly.

• Ten Bears (played by Floyd "Red Crow" Westerman) — supporting

  Elderly and respected Lakota chief who holds significant authority in the tribe.

• Timmons (played by Robert Pastorelli) — supporting

  Confederate deserter who joins the Lakota tribe, seeking refuge and a new life.

Key Relationships

• Kicking Bird → Ten Bears (Alliance Co-Leader)
• Stands With A Fist → Kicking Bird (Family Adoptive Father)
• Lieutenant Dunbar → Timmons (Professional Travel Companion)
• Lieutenant Dunbar → Ten Bears (Power Follower)
• Lieutenant Dunbar → Smiles A Lot (Social Mentor)
• Lieutenant Dunbar → Wind In His Hair (Social Close Friend)
• Lieutenant Dunbar → Kicking Bird (Alliance Diplomatic Partner)
• Lieutenant Dunbar → Stands With A Fist (Romantic Spouse)

Story Analysis

A Union soldier's journey from wartime isolation to cultural integration and ultimate exile.

Plot Progression

1. The Desperate Ride
2. Bridging Two Worlds
3. Growing Bonds
4. Betrayal and Rescue