The Last of the Mohicans

by James Fenimore Cooper

The Last of the Mohicans: Dialect 2 key examples

Chapter 3
Explanation and Analysis—Translated Speech:

In Chapter 3, Cooper introduces a dialect of his own invention that he claims is a representative translation of American Indian speech in what we now call upstate New York:

“Even your traditions make the case in my favor, Chingachgook,” [Hawkeye] said, speaking in the tongue which was known to all the natives who formerly inhabited the country between the Hudson and the Potomac, and of which we shall give a free translation for the benefit of the reader; endeavoring, at the same time, to preserve some of the peculiarities, both of the individual and of the language.

Chapter 5
Explanation and Analysis—Cloud and Wind:

In Chapter 5, just after Hawkeye and the Mohicans have saved Duncan from Magua's treachery, Duncan encourages the party to run after the fleeing Magua. Hawkeye responds with a metaphor emblematic of his invented dialect:

“Why so soon disheartened!” he exclaimed; “the scoundrel must be concealed behind some of these trees, and may yet be secured. We are not safe while he goes at large.”

“Would you set a cloud to chase the wind?” returned the disappointed scout[...]

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