How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
"Ah! the wholesome restraint of discipline is but little known among this self-abandoned people. In a country of birches, a rod is never seen, and it ought not to appear a marvel in my eyes, that the choicest blessings of Providence are wasted in such cries as these." (22.72)
David expresses wonder that the Indian children are never beaten. Here he exemplifies the white religious principles of his day: the whole "spare the rod and the spoil the child" style of parenting.
Quote #8
Nothing but the color of his skin had saved the lives of Magua and the conjurer, who would have been the first victims sacrificed to his own security, had not the scout believed such an act, however congenial it might be to the nature of an Indian, utterly unworthy of one who boasted a descent from men that knew no cross of blood. (26.1)
Here Hawkeye is demonstrating "white" principles. Why does he mock white man's courage earlier but adhere to it here? To what extent does he follow "white" principles and to what extent "Native American"?
Quote #9
"I am an unworthy and humble follower of one who taught not the damnable principle of revenge. Should I fall, therefore, seek no victims to my manes, but rather forgive my destroyers; and if you remember them at all, let it be in prayers for the enlightening of their minds, and for their eternal welfare." (26.56)
David shows himself here to be a pacifist. Does this fit with what else we know of his character?