59 pages 1 hour read

Sir Walter Scott

Waverley

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1814

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Waverley by Sir Walter Scott chronicles the adventures of Edward Waverley, an English soldier caught in the Jacobite uprising of 1745. Raised by both his Jacobite-sympathizing uncle and his Hanoverian father, Edward joins his regiment in Scotland but is quickly drawn to the romantic allure of the Highlands. He encounters various characters, including the captivating Flora and the clan chief Fergus, ultimately switching allegiances to the Jacobite cause. The narrative details his journey through battles, romantic entanglements, and shifting political alliances during this tumultuous historical period. The novel contains depictions of xenophobia, racism, sexism, sexual assault, ableism, abduction, and loss of pregnancy.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Reviews of Sir Walter Scott's Waverley highlight its historical significance as one of the first historical novels, praised for its vivid depiction of 18th-century Scotland and complex characters. However, readers note its dense prose and slow pacing may deter some. Still, it remains a seminal work in historical fiction, appreciated for its rich narrative and cultural insights.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Waverley?

Readers who enjoy Waverley by Sir Walter Scott are typically fond of historical novels set in the 18th century. Similar to fans of Jane Austen's works, they appreciate rich, detailed descriptions, and complex characters. This audience may also enjoy Ivanhoe or War and Peace, which share themes of historical conflict and romance.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Conflict

Life/Time: Coming of Age

Life/Time: The Past

Genre

British Literature

Historical Fiction

Action / Adventure

Topics

History: World