The Complete Poetical Works of Sir Walter Scott (eBook)

In 'The Complete Poetical Works of Sir Walter Scott,' readers are presented with a comprehensive collection that encapsulates the Romantic sensibility and vigorous narrative verse for which Scott is renowned. This anthology includes Scott's notable long narrative poems like 'Marmion' and 'The Lady of the Lake,' which not only achieved wide popularity during his lifetime but also significantly influenced the course of nineteenth-century poetry. His works are situated within the rich tapestry of the Romantic era, reflecting a deep fascination with medievalism and history. Scott's ballads such as 'The Wild Huntsman' and 'The Battle of Sempach,' alongside his contributions to 'The Minstrelsy of the Scottish Border,' showcase his adept hand at capturing the intersection of the Gothic and the sublime. The literary context is further enriched by commentaries from esteemed contemporaries such as Victor Hugo, Robert Louis Stevenson, Charles Dickens, and Andrew Lang, presenting a multilayered understanding of Scott's poetical achievements.
Sir Walter Scott's profound contribution to literature extends from his narrative poems to his historical novels, which sought to reconstruct and animate the Scottish past. Born in 1771, Scott was deeply involved with the preservation of Scottish folklore and traditions, which is reflected in both his poetry and prose. His career as a clerk to the Court of Session and Sheriff-Deputate of Selkirkshire provided him with a wealth of historical knowledge and insight, culminating in a literary style marked by meticulous attention to historical detail and a romanticized yet critical understanding of the past. The patriotic fervor and the exploration of the human condition within his verse further echo Scott's engagement with the cultural and political landscape of his time.
The all-encompassing nature of this volume makes it essential reading for anyone interested in the Romantic period or Scottish literature. Scholars and poetry enthusiasts will find in Sir Walter Scott's verse not only a grand, sweeping narrative voice but also a precise and evocative expression of cultural identity. With additional perspectives from notable literary figures of the era, this collection is not only a testament to Scott's poetical legacy but also a dialogue with the literary giants of his time. It is highly recommended for those seeking to dive deep into the heart of Romantic poetry and the narrative soul of Scottish verse.