The Last of the Mohicans · Chapter
Chapter XVI explained
Colonel Munro reveals the secret of Cora's mixed-race heritage to Major Heyward, who admits his prejudice while professing love for Alice.
What happens
Colonel Munro reveals the secret of Cora's mixed-race heritage to Major Heyward, who admits his prejudice while professing love for Alice. Montcalm produces a captured letter from General Webb advising surrender, forcing Munro to capitulate. The French general offers generous terms, and the garrison agrees to surrender with honors of war.
Themes in this chapter
Racial Prejudice and Miscegenation
Munro reveals Cora's mixed-race heritage, and Heyward's internal prejudice is exposed, highlighting societal attitudes toward interracial relationships.
Colonial Warfare and Imperialism
The siege and surrender negotiations illustrate the clash between European powers (France and Britain) and the impact on colonial territories.
Loyalty and Betrayal
General Webb's letter advising surrender is seen as a betrayal by Munro, who feels abandoned by his superior.
Characters to notice
- Major Duncan Heyward
Embarrassed by his racial prejudice, he admits his love for Alice and serves as interpreter during the surrender negotiations.
- Colonel Munro
Reveals Cora's mixed-race heritage and his own past; devastated by Webb's betrayal, he reluctantly agrees to surrender.
- Marquis de Montcalm
Demonstrates honor and generosity, offering favorable terms and producing Webb's letter to force surrender.
- Cora Munro
Referenced as the daughter of mixed race, whose heritage is a source of prejudice and family history.
- Alice Munro
Mentioned as the object of Heyward's affection and the image of her mother.
Key passages
“the south, where these unfortunate beings are considered of a race inferior to your own.”
Munro refers to the Southern colonies where people of mixed race are viewed as inferior.
Highlights the racial prejudice of the era.
“Heaven protect me from a prejudice so unworthy of my reason!”
Heyward denies being prejudiced, though he inwardly acknowledges his bias.
Reveals Heyward's internal conflict about race.
“The man has betrayed me!”
Munro accuses General Webb of treachery for advising surrender.
Expresses Munro's sense of betrayal by his superior.
“Carry them to England, and show them to your king.”
Montcalm allows the garrison to keep their regimental colors.
Demonstrates Montcalm's generous surrender terms.