The Last of the Mohicans · Chapter
The Sacrifice and the Captivity explained
Magua asserts his revenge by claiming Cora as his captive, rejecting Hawkeye's offer to exchange himself for her freedom.
What happens
Magua asserts his revenge by claiming Cora as his captive, rejecting Hawkeye's offer to exchange himself for her freedom. Cora bravely accepts her fate, entrusting Alice to Heyward and Hawkeye, while Uncas warns Magua that pursuit will follow. Magua departs with Cora, taunting the Delawares as he leaves.
Themes in this chapter
Revenge and Justice
Magua's revenge is central as he claims Cora, while Uncas invokes the Manitou's justice in warning of pursuit.
Loyalty and Betrayal
Hawkeye's offer to sacrifice himself for Cora demonstrates loyalty, while Magua's capture of Cora is an act of betrayal.
Noble Savage
Uncas and the Delawares are portrayed with a sense of honor and justice, contrasting with Magua's vengeful cunning.
Characters to notice
- Magua
Magua asserts his power, rejects Hawkeye's offer, and takes Cora captive, taunting the Delawares as he departs.
- Cora Munro
Cora bravely accepts her captivity, thanks Hawkeye for his offer, and entrusts Alice to Heyward's care.
- Hawkeye
Hawkeye offers himself in exchange for Cora's freedom, but his offer is rejected; he then restrains Heyward from pursuing Magua.
- Uncas
Uncas warns Magua that pursuit will come when the sun reaches a certain point, asserting the justice of the Delawares.
- Major Duncan Heyward
Heyward is anguished by Cora's captivity and threatens to pursue Magua, but is restrained by Hawkeye.
- Alice Munro
Alice is unconscious and supported by Heyward; Cora speaks of her beauty and purity before departing.
Key passages
“Le Subtil is very strong... he has his revenge!”
Magua declares his power and triumph in taking Cora.
Magua's exultation over his revenge.
“Will The Long Rifle give his life for the woman?”
Magua asks if Hawkeye would trade his life for Cora's freedom.
Magua tests Hawkeye's offer.
“I accept your offer; release the woman. I am your prisoner!”
Hawkeye agrees to become Magua's prisoner in exchange for Cora's release.
Hawkeye's self-sacrificial offer.
“Le Renard Subtil is a great chief; he has but one mind.”
Magua asserts his unwavering resolve as a chief.
Magua rejects the exchange.
“I am your prisoner, and, at a fitting time shall be ready to follow, even to my death.”
Cora accepts her captivity with dignity.
Cora's composed acceptance.
“When he is seen above the trees, there will be men on your trail.”
Uncas warns Magua that pursuit will begin at a specific time.
Uncas's threat of pursuit.
