The Last of the Mohicans: Plot Summary and Character Analysis

A Personal Review of The Last of the Mohicans

In my opinion, the book The Last of the Mohicans is very good. I find it compelling because it deals with very interesting historical facts and, in addition, features a very beautiful love story. In fact, Uncas, the Mohican, is my favorite character because of his fighting spirit and his desire to achieve what he wants. Though the end seems sad, it is a wonderful story.

Plot Summary: The French and Indian War Setting

The story is set in the United States during the French and Indian War (the conflict between France and England). General Munro is on an expedition in the jungle. His daughters, Cora and Alice, travel to visit him at Fort William Henry. General Munro commands an Indian, Magua (who belongs to the Huron tribe), to guide them along the way. However, Magua is treacherous and deliberately leads them astray in the jungle.

They are found by the scout Hawkeye and the Mohicans, Uncas and Chingachgook, who are enemies of the Hurons. Hawkeye and the Mohicans save the girls from falling into Magua's trap. Later, there are several clashes in which the French, supported by the Hurons, defeat the English.

In one of the battles, the Hurons take Cora and Alice as prisoners. Munro and the Mohicans attempt a rescue, but Cora is killed in the ensuing conflict. Magua kills Uncas, but Magua himself dies shortly after while attempting to escape. The English, with the help of the Delaware (enemy tribes of the Hurons, but allies of the Mohicans), eventually prevail. The story concludes tragically with Chingachgook remaining as the last of the Mohicans.

Key Questions and Answers About the Plot

Who killed Cora?

One of Magua's warriors killed Cora.

What did the six Indian girls do?

They covered Cora's body with an Indian robe, sweet herbs, and forest flowers.

Why did Chingachgook ask the tribe not to cry?

He believed that the Great Spirit needed such a warrior and had called Uncas away. He affirmed that Uncas was a good son and courageous.

How was Uncas killed?

Magua stabbed Uncas in the heart three times.

Why were Cora and Alice Munro going to Fort Henry?

They were going to Fort William Henry to see their father, General Munro.

Why did General Munro accept the surrender terms?

He accepted because he was responsible for the lives of the people at the fort.

What did the Hurons do to the group that had just left the fort?

They savagely started attacking everyone (this refers to the massacre following the surrender).

What did the old warrior ask the French juggler?

He asked if the juggler could frighten away an evil spirit with his magic.

Who was disguised as a bear?

Hawkeye.

How did Hawkeye obtain the bear disguise?

He saw a Huron medicine man dressing up as a bear, killed him, and took his place.

Why did the Huron warriors torment and humiliate Uncas?

Because the hatred between the two tribes was immense.

Why did the warriors let David and the bear enter the wigwam?

They were accused of being spies, but the warriors agreed that the bear's spell would destroy Uncas's reputation.

Which Indian tribe had not taken part in General Montcalm's campaign?

The Delaware tribe.

Why did Tamenund say that Magua could take Cora but not the others?

Magua asked to take Cora as his captive, but the others were considered guests and were protected by the Delaware.

Where was Uncas put?

In a wigwam.

Who was Manito?

Manito (or Manitou) is the Great Spirit.