An ever-persistent question in Canada has always been the issue of identity. In this multicultural country, where one of the main arguments is the relation of the English, French and many other cultures, national identity gains a crucial role in numerous contexts. Literature is one possible way for individuals to express their concerns in connection with the subject. My thesis intends to analyze the essential notions of identity in Surfacing (1972), a Canadian novel written by Margaret Atwood, as well as to highlight some Canadian cultural concepts, drawing parallels within the plot of the book on the basis of a thematic approach.