Cooper's main purpose is to examine the importance of friendship and survival. The story take place during the French and Indian War. In the story, the French allies with the Huron tribe and takes over the British army at Fort William Henry. In the jungle, Hawkeye and Uncas cooperate in hunting and kill the deer to eat. The dialogue between Hawkeye and Chingachgook convey both of their difference and the similarity. They dress different clothing and use different tools for hunting. Hawkeye uses a "wooden gun" and Chingachgook uses a "stone hatchet." Despite their difference, both shared the same understand of the land. It is through their communion with nature that they are able to overcome their differences.
