Lori's post on The Pioneers

While reading James Fenimore Cooper’s The Pioneers, I have been evaluating the importance of the book serving as a historical reference since the times were constantly changing. In class, we have spoken about why it is so important that Cooper gives in depth detail about characters and location. At times, it seems to drag on though I feel that the detail is necessary to have. Even in the time period that this book was written in, times were changing quickly, so this book serves as a textual reference.

    When examining this idea, it is important to look at all of the changes that take place in Templeton over the course of the book. One example of this  is when Elizabeth stops in Templeton on her way to the Christmas Eve service. This takes place in chapter 10 when Elizabeth stops to visit the Hollisters. Even though Templeton is a new city, it has still undergone numerous changes which leaves Elizabeth in shock as a result. One of the biggest changes she sees is the unfinished new church. Elizabeth notices “not only new occupations, but names that were strangers to her ears, met her gaze at every step they proceeded. The very houses seemed changed. This had been altered by an addition, that had been painted; another had been erected on the site of an old acquaintance” (112).

    Even within the plot of this book it is clear that all of the characters are noticing how quickly their surroundings and land is changing. It is also important to note that in this chapter Irish immigrants are introduced by the Hollisters. The ethnicity of Templeton’s residents are just another element in town that is rapidly changing.