Last of the Mohicans #1: Who was James Fenimore Cooper?

James Fenimore Cooper is from the school of writing known as American Romanticism.  In this case, the term “romantic” is not about love, but rather on the ideals that came after the European Enlightenment which focused on logic and reason.  Romantic authors used themes such as individuality, freedom from rules, life in solitude rather than society, non-conformity, the power of the imagination, beauty, nature, and the rebirth of mythological themes.  Sometimes known as the first great American author, Cooper wrote stories centered on nature, heroism, pioneer life, and the American frontier.  Last of the Mohicans is the second in a 5-novel series about pioneer life during the French and Indian War (1754-1763), and is often considered his greatest work.

Before beginning your study of James Fenimore Cooper’s novel, Last of the Mohicans, decide whether you agree or disagree with each statement.   Copy and paste the following questions into a Word document.  State your reasons why you agree or disagree with the following statements. 

1. “Great art speaks powerfully, inspires fresh thinking, and connects us to our past.” “Might versus right” - the strongest will rule others and have the power to determine right and wrong.
2. Man must tame and dominate the natural world.
3. It is up to the current generation to leave the world a better place for future generations.
4. Darwin’s theory of “Survival of the Fittest” is a universal truth.
5. A real family consists of a mom, dad, and their biological children.
6. There is peace and spirituality in nature.
7. People of other races should not inter marry.