Here's a more detailed breakdown:
* Time: 1740s, during the colonial era of the American Northeast.
* Place: A remote, forested area in Maine, near the Kennebec River, which is a major river in the state. The specific location is never named, but it's described as being far from any settlements.
* Environment: The story is set in the wilderness, with dense forests, rivers, streams, and vast tracts of untouched land. It's a harsh and unforgiving environment, where survival depends on resourcefulness and knowledge of the land.
* Season: The story takes place over a span of several months, starting in the late spring or early summer, and continuing through the fall and into winter. This allows for shifts in the environment, from the warmth of summer to the harshness of winter.
The setting is crucial to the story as it highlights:
* The challenges of survival: The harsh wilderness environment, the dangers of wildlife, and the need to find food and shelter are constant challenges for the characters.
* The importance of resourcefulness: The characters must learn to adapt to the environment and use what they have to survive.
* The clash between nature and civilization: The story explores the relationship between humans and the natural world, and how the two can co-exist.
* The Native American perspective: The story features a Native American character who represents a different way of life and understanding of the natural world.
By setting the story in the wilderness, *The Sign of the Beaver* creates a powerful and thought-provoking narrative about survival, adaptation, and the importance of respecting nature.