The Complete Novels of Walter Scott (eBook)

Sir Walter Scott, 1st Baronet (1771–1832), was a towering figure of the 19th century Scottish literature and is often considered the inventor of the historical novel as a literary genre. His well-researched and vividly portrayed stories, set against the backdrop of different historical periods, significantly influenced the development of Western literature. A lawyer by profession and an ardent antiquarian, Scott's passion for history can be seen in his meticulous works. The Great Unknown, as he was once popularly called for initially publishing his novels anonymously, he revealed himself as the author of 'Waverley' series only after achieving literary fame. His other notable works include 'Ivanhoe', 'Rob Roy', 'The Lady of the Lake', and 'The Heart of Midlothian', all published in the extensive collection 'The Complete Novels of Walter Scott'. His unique combination of romance, adventure, and a deep understanding of human nature, narrated with an engaging storytelling capability, set the standard for the cultural construction of Scottish and British identities. Scott's literary style not only created a resurgence of interest in the Scottish Highland culture but also laid down the groundwork for the modern genre of historical fiction, influencing writers from Victor Hugo to Leo Tolstoy.