LITR 4232: American Renaissance
University of Houston-Clear Lake
Student Presentation, spring 2001

Reader: Cleo Huval-Moore

Recorder: Cynnamon Coufal

February 1, 2001

The Last of the Mohicans

The Last of the Mohicans, written by James Fenimore Cooper, is the first great American novel. It was the second in a series known as the Leatherstocking Tales. Published in 1826, it became one of Cooper’s most successful novels. The novel exemplifies both popular and classical literature. Objective one seeks to explore the different types of literature using critical reading and understanding of the genres of the "American Renaissance."

One of the characteristics of popular literature is a story easy to relate to. On page 337 the death of Uncas and Cora is a passage anyone can read easily and obtain meaning solely from the surface story without delving into complicated symbols and meanings. Another characteristic of popular literature is the typed characters and sentimentality portrayed by Cooper. The hero, Duncan and heroine, Alice, are shown with the rescuer Hawk-eye and the villain Magua on page 261. It is easy for the reader to understand the good guys from the bad guys and feel excitement over the outcome of the novel. This made the novel popular on the initial publishing and continued interest through the years.

Characteristics of classical literature explored within this discussion are the cultural criticism Cooper makes and personal growth for the characters within the novel. On page 301, 302, the chief speaks on the white man’s insatiable appetite for natural resources, having little respect for the land or the Indians. He has been given enough but for the white man there is never enough, he is a glutton. Reading on page 347, the father realizes the beauty of these people and thanks them for their kindness at the burial of Cora. He speaks of equality, if not on earth, in heaven where there will not be any differences in persons. He has gone from the soldier interested in killing the savage beasts to appreciation and respect for the Indian as people.

Cynammon Coufal recorded the classroom discussion. Kellie Keener noticed that in moments of crisis, Alice "clasps to the bosom of her hero" while Cora stands independent. There is never really anyone to protect Cora. Lacy Lakner, when considering the classic verses popular theme, pointed out some interesting differences between the book and the movie. While the book itself is classic, the movie altered to fit popular culture: different people live, the characters have a different appearance, Uncas and Alice are paired together. In the movie, Alice is a more independent character, and Cora always clasps to Hawkeye. Dr. White added that in the movie version Duncan is a European sort, which makes him into a villain by today's movie stereotypes. Magua wants to kill Cora until he meets her, and he is almost more out in the open than Uncas with his love for Cora.