# XXXII explained — The Last of the Mohicans

> Chapter companion for The Last of the Mohicans by James Fenimore Cooper.

## What happens

The chapter depicts the climactic battle between the Delawares and Hurons, culminating in the tragic deaths of Cora and Uncas. Hawkeye and Heyward coordinate with Chingachgook to trap the Hurons, but Magua kills Cora and then Uncas before attempting to escape. Hawkeye shoots Magua as he flees, ending the conflict.

## Themes in this chapter

### Revenge and Justice

Magua's murder of Cora and Uncas, followed by Hawkeye's fatal shot, underscores the cycle of vengeance and the pursuit of justice.

### Death and Mourning

The deaths of Cora and Uncas, and the subsequent grief of Chingachgook, highlight the theme of loss and mourning.

### Colonial Warfare and Imperialism

The battle tactics, alliances, and conflicts between Delawares and Hurons reflect the broader imperial struggles of the French and Indian War.

## Character check-ins

### Hawkeye

Leads the Delawares in battle, strategizes with Heyward, and ultimately shoots Magua.

### Major Duncan Heyward

Fights alongside Hawkeye, witnesses the deaths of Cora and Uncas, and pleads for mercy from Magua.

### Chingachgook

Assumes command of the Delawares, ambushes the Hurons from the rear, and mourns his son Uncas.

### Uncas

Leaps to Cora's defense, kills her murderer, and is fatally stabbed by Magua.

### Cora Munro

Killed by a Huron warrior during the confrontation with Magua.

### Magua

Kills Uncas, taunts the scout, and is shot by Hawkeye while attempting to escape.

## Key lines

> You are a young man, major," said the scout, dropping the butt of Killdeer to the earth, and leaning on the barrel, a little fatigued with his previous industry; "and it may be your gift to lead armies, at some future day, ag'in these imps, the Mingoes. You may here see the philosophy of an Indian fight. It consists mainly in ready hand, a quick eye and a good cover.

Hawkeye tells Heyward that Indian warfare relies on quick reflexes and good cover, contrasting it with European tactics.

_Hawkeye explains the principles of Native American combat to Heyward._

> The pale faces are dogs! the Delawares women! Magua leaves them on the rocks, for the crows!

Magua insults his enemies, calling the white men dogs and the Delawares women, before attempting to escape.

_Magua's taunt before his final leap reflects his defiance and hatred._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_last_of_the_mohicans_se/chapters/xxxii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_last_of_the_mohicans_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_last_of_the_mohicans_se/chapters