Satanstoe: Or, The Littlepage Manuscripts, a Tale of the Colony: Analysis of Major Characters
"Satanstoe: Or, The Littlepage Manuscripts, a Tale of the Colony" features a rich tapestry of characters navigating life in colonial America, particularly focusing on themes of love, rivalry, and the complexities of relationships against the backdrop of conflict. The narrator, Cornelius "Corny" Littlepage, embarks on a journey that sees him balancing family obligations with personal desires, as he becomes entangled in the lives of several key figures. Among them is Anneke Mordaunt, a beautiful and coveted daughter caught between her father's choice, Major Bulstrode, and her true affection for Corny.
Major Bulstrode represents the British military presence and embodies the romantic rivalries of the era. Corny's friend, Guert Ten Eyck, faces his own tumultuous path as he pursues Mary Wallace, eventually meeting a tragic end before their marriage can be realized. Other notable characters, like the Reverend Thomas Worden and the enigmatic Mother Doortje, contribute to the narrative's exploration of fate and love. The interplay of these relationships is set against significant historical events, including battles and encounters with Native American tribes, enriching the story's context and emotional depth. This character-driven tale invites readers to reflect on the enduring themes of loyalty, love, and loss within a colonial setting.
Satanstoe: Or, The Littlepage Manuscripts, a Tale of the Colony: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: James Fenimore Cooper
First published: 1845
Genre: Novel
Locale: New York State
Plot: Historical
Time: 1751–1758
Cornelius (Corny) Littlepage, the narrator. As the son of a landed proprietor, he travels, on business for his father, between Albany and New York City, and, later, into the forests of New York State, where he engages in the battle of Ticonderoga and subsequent forays against Indian raiders.
Anneke Mordaunt, the beautiful daughter of Herman Mordaunt. Courted by Major Bulstrode, her father's choice as a husband, and Corny Littlepage, she finally confesses her love for Corny, whom she marries.
Major Bulstrode, a British officer and the rival of Corny Littlepage for the hand of Anneke Mordaunt.
Guert Ten Eyck, Corny Littlepage's friend, who is in love with Mary Wallace. After many difficulties, he finally wins her hand, only to be mortally wounded in an Indian raid before they can be married.
Mary Wallace, Anneke Mordaunt's friend, who falls, too late, in love with Guert Ten Eyck.
The Reverend Thomas Worden, Corny Littlepage's tutor and companion in his travels.
Herman Mordaunt, Anneke Mordaunt's father, a wealthy landowner.
Dirck Van Valkenburgh, called Dirck Follock, Corny Littlepage's friend.
Abraham Van Valkenburgh, called Brom Follock, Dirck Van Valkenburgh's father.
Jason Newcome, a schoolmaster.
Jaap, Corny Littlepage's black servant.
Mr. Traverse,asurveyor.
Susquesus, called Trackless, and Jumper, Indian guides and runners.
Musquerusque, a Canadian Indian captive taken by Jaap at Ticonderoga.
Mother Doortje, a fortune-teller who warns Guert Ten Eyck that he may never marry.
Hugh Roger Littlepage, Corny Littlepage's elderly grandfather.
Lord Howe, a British general killed at Ticonderoga.