The Last of the Mohicans is a prime example of literature that emerged during the Romanticism Era. The most prevalent element of Romanticism in The Last of the Mohicans is the idea of emotion over intellect. Nathaniel and Cora fall in love, despite Colonel Webb’s hatred of Nathaniel and also despite Duncan’s interest in Cora, someone Cora could marry to guarantee a safe and content future. Even so, the two remain together through their love. Emotion is rife as the movie reaches its climax.Alice commits suicide after Unca dies trying to save her from marrying Magua; Duncan sacrifices his life for Cora.
Having represented reason before this, Duncan’s change of heart shows how Romanticism rebelled against the preceding Age of Reason. As he begins to burn at the hands of the Indians, Nathaniel shoots him, ending his life painlessly, showing sympathy for someone he had previously distrusted and hated. Another element of Romanticism, nature also prevails in The Last of the Mohicans. The movie begins with a pan across the mountains and ends with a view of the mountains once more.
The beauty of nature is emphasized constantly as characters are viewed against the setting of nature, travelling along streams and taking shelter in forests and caves. Overall, Cooper’s novel portrays several elements of the Romantic Era that can be found in the adapted film. The Last of the Mohicans remains a popular novel and movie, even in modern times, despite its publication in 1826. As any novel that has remained in the public eye for so long, this can be attributed to the presence of everlasting themes, namely nature and love. With captivating language and filming, Cooper’s novel is everlasting, even as a film.
