SIR WALTER SCOTT

Sir Walter Scott (1771-1832), Scottish novelist and poet, whose work as a translator, editor, biographer, and critic, together with his novels and poems, made him one of the most prominent figures in English romanticism. He was born in Edinburgh, August 15, 1771.

A love of ballads and legends helped direct Scott's literary activity. His translations of German Gothic romances in 1796 gained him some note, but he first achieved eminence with the edition of ballads, The Minstrlsy of the Scottish border, in 1802, His first narrative poem, The Lay of the Last Minstrel   (1805), brought him huge popularity, Following this success he wrote a series of romantic narrative poems which included Marmion   *(1808). In 1813 he was offered and declined the poet laurateship of England. In turning to the novel he began a new series  of triumphs. More than 20 novels followed in quick succession. Although he published this fiction anonymously, his identity became an open secret.

Scott is the first major historical novelist. In his portraits of Scotland, England and the Continent from medieval times to the 18th century, he showed a keen sense of political and traditional forces and their influence on the individual. These works remain valuable for their compelling atmosphere, epic dignity, and clear understanding of human nature.

 

Novels         <- click here for a complete list of Scott's novels

Poetry          <- click here for a complete list of Scott's poems

General        <- click here for the best of Scott on the Web

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