Study Questions & Essay Topics
Study Questions
1. How does
The
Last of the Mohicans bring together elements of the sentimental
novel and the frontier adventure story?
2. Discuss
the relationship between history and fiction in
The Last
of the Mohicans. How do historical events relate to the
literary genres that classify Cooper's novel?
3. What role
does the concept of the frontier play in
The Last of the
Mohicans?
Suggested Essay Topics
1. The Native Americans in Cooper's
novel seem either entirely good (Uncas and Chingachgook) or entirely
evil (Magua and most of the Hurons). Are there any believable Indian characters
in the novel? Is Cooper guilty of invoking racial stereotypes in
his portrayal of Indians?
2. Compare and contrast the father-son
relationship of Chingachgook and Uncas with the father-daughter relationship
of Munro and his daughters.
3. In what way is Hawkeye the
hero of the book? As the hero, why isn't Hawkeye involved in either
of the novel's love stories?
4. Discuss three examples of
the clash between races or cultures. What do the three examples
show about Cooper's views on racism?
5. The nineteenth-century language
of the novel can seem excessively formal and elaborate to modern
readers. Do you think the novel's language interferes with the excitement
of its story? Why or why not?
