The Last of the Mohicans
by James Fenimore Cooper

The Last of the Mohicans: Genre 1 key example

Genre
Explanation and Analysis:

The Last of the Mohicans is primarily a historical novel. This genre was popularized by the Scottish writer Sir Walter Scott in the 1810s. The idea of the historical novel is to deliver readers a fictionalized version of history that comes alive on the page. Compelling plots and charming characters incite the reader's investment in historical events, especially events at the heart of national identity. The historical novel is sometimes called the historical romance. There are some distinctions between these two terms, but Cooper's intensely emotional plots mean that his novels can also be characterized as historical romances.