Waverley (novel)

Waverley

Company type	Novel
Industry	Literature
Founded	1814
Founder	Walter Scott
Products	Historical novel

Waverley; or, ’Tis Sixty Years Since is a historical novel authored by Walter Scott (1771–1832). Already acclaimed for his poetry, Scott released Waverley anonymously in 1814, marking his first venture into prose fiction. It is recognized as one of the pioneering historical novels in Western literary tradition.

The narrative centers on Edward Waverley, a young English gentleman who receives a commission in a Scottish regiment shortly before the 1745 Jacobite rising. During a visit to the Baron of Bradwardine, Waverley uncovers the Baron's allegiance to Charles Edward Stuart and becomes entangled in a dilemma between his duty to the Crown and his sympathy for the Jacobite cause. His actions win him supporters on both factions, which becomes pivotal after the Jacobites suffer defeat.

Scott continued to publish subsequent novels under the attribution "the author of Waverley" to preserve his anonymity and artistic independence. The novels from this era are collectively referred to as the "Waverley Novels." Upon release, Waverley garnered positive reception from early 19th-century audiences and critics alike and has maintained its significance over time.

In 1818, Scott was honored with a baronetcy, becoming Sir Walter Scott. His identity as the author of Waverley became widely acknowledged and he openly confirmed it in 1827.

Composition and sources

The initial volume of Waverley was probably started around 1808, developed sporadically, and finalized toward the end of 1813. The second and third volumes were composed during spring and early summer of 1814. Scott’s extensive understanding of Jacobite history shaped the novel, incorporating firsthand testimonies from participants in the 1745 uprising alongside comprehensive historical texts. Significant references included:

• John Home, The History of the Rebellion in the Year 1745 (1802)
• Edmund Burt, Letters from a Gentleman in the North of Scotland (1754)
• Donald Macintosh, A Collection of Gaelic Proverbs, and Familiar Phrases (1785)

Editions

The inaugural edition of Waverley, issued in three volumes with a print run of 1000 copies, was released in Edinburgh on 7 July 1814 by Archibald Constable and Co., followed later that month by publication in London through Longman, Hurst, Rees, Orme, and Brown. Like all pre-1827 Waverley novels, it appeared anonymously and was priced at one guinea (£1.05). Two additional editions totaling 4000 copies were published within that year, incorporating minor revisions by the author; Scott himself participated in preparing the sixth edition in 1816. After encountering financial difficulties, Scott revised Waverley with fresh introductions and annotations for inclusion in the complete Waverley Novels collection published in 1826. This "Magnum" edition was issued between June and July 1829 as volumes one and two.

The first scholarly edition was edited by Claire Lamont in 1981 (Clarendon Press). The authoritative current edition is P. D. Garside’s 2007 volume for the Edinburgh Edition of the Waverley Novels, which is based on the first edition while restoring authorial variants drawn from manuscripts and later editions. The new materials from the Magnum edition are incorporated into Volume 25a.

Background

Set against the backdrop of the Jacobite rising of 1745, an attempt to reinstate the Stuart monarchy under Charles Edward Stuart ("Bonnie Prince Charlie"), the plot follows Edward Waverley, a young English officer dispatched to Scotland. His journey takes him from his noble estate at Waverley-Honour through the Scottish Lowlands to visit Baron Bradwardine’s residence, then onward into the Highlands where the rebellion is concentrated.

Plot summary

Edward finds comfort at his uncle Sir Everard Waverley's estate, where enduring Tory and Jacobite sympathies remain strong. Following the death of his mother around the age of 12 or 13, Edward spends less time with his Whig-aligned father, who serves in the Hanoverian administration based in Westminster. Although initially indifferent to politics, Edward receives a commission in the Hanoverian military through his father and is assigned to Dundee. While on leave, he visits the Baron of Bradwardine, a family acquaintance, and becomes acquainted with the Baron's daughter, Rose.

When Highland clansmen arrive at Bradwardine's residence, Edward’s curiosity leads him to explore the Clan Mac-Ivor’s mountain stronghold, where he meets their leader Fergus and his sister Flora—both committed Jacobites preparing for uprising. After exceeding his leave period, Edward faces accusations of desertion and is detained but subsequently freed by Highlanders who escort him to Jacobite centers of power including Holyrood Palace, where he encounters Bonnie Prince Charlie.

Motivated by Flora’s influence, Edward aligns himself with the Jacobite faction and participates in the Battle of Prestonpans in September 1745. Despite obstacles such as swampy ground disrupting their ranks, the Highlanders continue their advance. During combat, Edward rescues Colonel Talbot of the Hanoverian forces, who is closely connected to Edward's uncle. Separated from Fergus following a government triumph, Edward seeks refuge among villagers until it is safe to depart and learns of his father’s passing before making his way to London.

Following the Jacobite collapse in 1746, Colonel Talbot arranges a pardon for Edward. He reunites with Baron Bradwardine—whose estate suffered an assault—and soon begins courting Rose. The Baron also receives clemency. Edward visits Flora prior to her departure for a French convent and attends Fergus Mac-Ivor’s trial and execution in Carlisle. Subsequently, he returns to Waverley Honour to prepare for marriage and initiate legal proceedings to obtain pardons for himself and the Baron. The Talbots restore Bradwardine’s estate near Waverley Honour while acquiring their own neighboring property. To finance the rehabilitation of Bradwardine’s ancestral home under his ownership, Edward sells his late father’s estate.

Characters

Main characters are highlighted in bold

• Sir Everard Waverley, owner of Waverley-Honour
• Richard, his brother
• Rachael, his sister
• Edward, nephew of Sir Everard
• Mr Samuel Pembroke, family chaplain
• Serjeant Humphrey Houghton, subordinate officer under Edward
• John Hodges, another subordinate
• Miss Cæcilia Stubbs, noted beauty
• Colonel Gardiner, Edward's superior officer
• Cosmo Comyne Bradwardine, proprietor of Bradwardine and Tully-Veolan
• Rose, daughter of Cosmo Bradwardine
• Bailie Duncan Macwheeeble, steward to Bradwardine
• Alexander Saunderson, butler at Bradwardine's estate
• David Gellatley, servant with limited intellect
• Janet, mother of David Gellatley
• Mr Falconer, laird of Balmawhapple
• Mr Bullsegg, laird of Killancureit
• Mr Rubrick, clergyman refusing allegiance to Hanoverian rule
• Fergus Mac-Ivor, chieftain of a Highland clan
• Flora, sister to Fergus Mac-Ivor
• Callum Beg, page to Fergus Mac-Ivor
• Evan Dhu Maccombich, lieutenant under Fergus
• Mrs Flockhart, landlady in Edinburgh
• Donald Bean Lean (also known as Ruthven and Ruffin), freebooter
• Alice, daughter of Donald Bean Lean
• Ebenezer Cruickshanks, innkeeper
• John Mucklewrath, blacksmith by trade
• Mrs Mucklewrath, wife of John Mucklewrath
• Mr Morton, minister
• Major Melville, Justice of the Peace
• Mr Habakkuk Gilfillan, leader among the Cameronians
• Colonel Donald Stewart, governor of Doune Castle
• Charles Edward, known as the Young Pretender
• Colonel Talbot
• Lady Emily Blandeville, spouse of Colonel Talbot
• Mrs Nosebag, wife of a military man

Chapter summary

Volume One

Ch. 1 Introduction: The author presents his work to readers.

Ch. 2 Waverley Honour—A Retrospective: Richard, Edward Waverley’s father, sides with the Whigs; this nearly causes Sir Everard to disinherit Edward, though he eventually grows fond of him.

Ch. 3 Education: At Waverley-Honour, Sir Everard’s estate, Edward receives instruction from chaplain Mr Pembroke, whose undirected teaching encourages imagination more than comprehension.

Ch. 4 Imaginary Constructs: Inspired by family tales from Aunt Rachael, young Edward spends time in fanciful reflection.

Ch. 5 Career Decision: To divert Edward’s attention from local beauty Miss Cæcilia Stubbs, Rachael arranges for him to join the army. The author apologizes for the extended introductory sections.

Ch. 6 Farewell at Waverley: Sir Everard provides Edward with a letter to Cosmo Bradwardine of Tully-Veolan; Pembroke burdens him with manuscript sermons.

Ch. 7 A Military Posting in Scotland: Finding army life dull in Angus, Edward secures leave for a journey.

Ch. 8 A Scottish Manor House Six Decades Ago: Edward arrives at the Tully-Veolan estate.

Ch. 9 Further Details of the Manor and Surroundings: Edward meets servant David Gellatley, who introduces him to the butler.

Ch. 10 Rose Bradwardine and Her Father: Edward encounters Rose and her father Bradwardine, who expects four guests for dinner.

Ch. 11 The Dinner Gathering: Following a lively meal, Balmawhapple insults Edward at the local inn.

Ch. 12 Reconciliation and Remorse: Bradwardine mediates between Edward and Balmawhapple; Rose shares Gellatley's story.

Ch. 13 A More Reasoned Day: After hunting with Bradwardine, Rose entertains Edward with stories, including one about Gellatley's mother’s reputation as a witch.

Ch. 14 A Revelation—Edward Settles at Tully-Veolan: Encouraged by Gellatley’s account of Bradwardine’s defense against Balmawhapple, Rose begins to develop feelings for Edward.

Ch. 15 A Creagh Incident and Its Effects: After six weeks, cattle at Tully-Veolan are stolen when Bradwardine refuses to pay Fergus Mac-Ivor’s blackmail demands.

Ch. 16 An Unexpected Mediator Appears: Evan Dhu Maccombich arrives from Fergus to negotiate peace; Edward sets off with him to explore the Highlands.

Ch. 17 Captive of a Highland Robber: Edward is hosted in Donald Bean Lean’s cave.

Ch. 18 Continuing the Journey: Donald’s daughter Alice cares for Edward before Evan escorts him to Fergus.

Ch. 19 The Chief and His Residence: Fergus is introduced and guides Edward to Glennaquoich.

Ch. 20 A Feast Among Highlanders: Edward partakes in a hearty meal with Clan Mac-Ivor.

Ch. 21 The Chieftain's Sister: Flora Mac-Ivor is introduced.

Ch. 22 Highland Music and Song: Flora describes Highland minstrelsy and performs by a waterfall.

Ch. 23 Waverley Remains at Glennaquoich: Flora discusses her opinions on Bradwardine and Rose with Edward.

Volume Two

Ch. 1 (24) Stag Hunting and Its Aftermath: Edward is injured during a stag hunt but recovers before returning to Glennaquoich.

Ch. 2 (25) News from England Arrives: Letters reveal that Edward’s father is involved in political intrigue and dismissed; Colonel G demands Edward’s return; he resigns his commission; Fergus offers assistance for revenge.

Ch. 3 (26) Clarification: Flora hesitates about Edward joining the Jacobites but considers his declaration of love.

Ch. 4 (27) On the Same Topic: Flora advises Edward to return to England, citing incompatible domestic happiness.

Ch. 5 (28) Letter from Tully-Veolan: Rose warns of a search for Edward; he resolves to travel to Edinburgh to clear his name.

Ch. 6 (29) Waverley's Reception in the Lowlands after Highland Visit: Guided by Callum Beg and then innkeeper Cruickshanks; receives letter from Fergus including Flora's poem about an English captain's grave.

Ch. 7 (30) The Loss of a Horse Shoe Causes Trouble: A political dispute with blacksmith Micklewrath leads to suspicion of Jacobite sympathies; Edward wounds Micklewrath in self-defense.

Ch. 8 (31) An Inquiry: Justice Major Mellville and Minister Morton examine evidence against Edward, including an attempt to induce Sergeant Houghton to desertion.

Ch. 9 (32) Discussion and Outcomes: Morton and Mellville review the case; Colonel requests Cameronian Gilfillan escort Edward to Stirling.

Ch. 10 (33) A Trusted Confidant: Morton supports Edward and provides information about Gilfillan.

Ch. 11 (34) Some Improvement in Circumstances: A relaxed meal is interrupted by Gilfillan’s drum signaling an impending escort.

Ch. 12 (35) A Volunteer Sixty Years Ago: Edward is placed under Gilfillan’s custody.

Ch. 13 (36) An Event Occurs: A disguised pedlar’s whistle prompts eight Highlanders to rescue Edward.

Ch. 14 (37) Waverley Remains Detained: Janet and a mysterious woman tend him; Alice Bean Lean places a packet in his portmanteau.

Ch. 15 (38) A Nighttime Adventure: After passing English troops, Edward is taken to Doune Castle.

Ch. 16 (39) Journey Resumes: Balmawhapple leads the party escorting Edward to Edinburgh.

Ch. 17 (40) Old and New Acquaintances Meet: Fergus introduces Edward to Prince Charles; Edward pledges allegiance.

Ch. 18 (41) Mysteries Begin Unfolding: Fergus suspects pedlar was Donald Bean Lean; Bradwardine joins them.

Ch. 19 (42) A Soldier's Dinner: Charles provides tartan attire; discussions about upcoming battle among Fergus, Bradwardine, Macwheeble take place.

Ch. 20 (43) The Ball Event: On eve of battle, Charles encourages Edward's pursuit of Flora; he impresses her at the ball.

Ch. 21 (44) The March Begins: Edward observes assembled Jacobite forces at Holyrood Palace.

Ch. 22 (45) An Incident Inspires Futile Reflection: Mortally wounded Houghton appears demoted during encounter with Edward.

Ch. 23 (46) Battle Eve Preparations: Despite inner turmoil over perceived betrayal, Edward joins preparations for battle.

Ch. 24 (47) The Battle Itself: At Prestonpans fight, Edward accepts Colonel Talbot’s surrender; Colonel G dies; Balmawhapple is killed.

Volume Three

Ch. 1 (48) An Unexpected Dilemma: Bradwardine worries about feudal obligations due to Charles wearing brogues but finds a resolution.

Ch. 2 (49) The English Captive: Talbot reproaches Edward for defecting.

Ch. 3 (50) Of Little Importance: Talbot entrusted to Edward agrees not to escape without permission.

Ch. 4 (51) Love and Political Intrigues Unfolded: Examination of packet reveals earlier letters from Colonel G requesting return; Donald Bean Lean’s role as pedlar Ruthven/Ruffin clarified by John Hodges and narrator.

Ch. 5 (52) Social Intrigues and Romance Developments: Talbot becomes better acquainted with others; attraction grows between Edward and Rose; Flora informs Rose about domestic prospects concerning Edward.

Ch. 6 (53) Fergus as Suitor Revealed: Fergus declares intent to marry Rose but admits Charles believes her affections lie elsewhere.

Ch. 7 (54) "To One Thing Constant Never": Flora uses Romeo and Juliet reading to encourage Edward toward Rose instead of herself.

Ch. 8 (55) A Courageous Man in Grief: Talbot reveals that distress over Scotland news caused wife’s miscarriage and serious illness.

Ch. 9 (56) Effort Made Forward: Edward presents Talbot with pass from Charles permitting travel to England.

Ch.10 (57) The March Continues Southward: As Jacobite army advances, Fergus expresses anger over rejection by Flora.

Ch.11 (58) Confusion in King Agramant's Camp Ensues: Callum fires after misinterpreting insult by Edward; struck unconscious by Fergus who then challenges him; duel interrupted when Charles clarifies misunderstanding regarding Rose’s feelings toward Edward.

Ch.12 (59) A Skirmish Occurs: In Cumberland, Fergus reports seeing Bodach glas spirit foretelling death; their group suffers defeat in skirmish.

Ch.13 (60) Series of Accidents Followed By Shelter Near Ullswater Provided by Farmer After Defeat

Ch.14 (61) Journey Toward London Undertaken Amidst News of Father's Death and Sir Everard's Trial Complicated by Mrs Nosebag's Inquiries

Ch.15 (62) Next Steps Considered as Talbot Assures False Report on Sir Everard's Accusation and Arranges Travel Back Disguised as Nephew

Ch.16 (63) Desolation Experienced Upon Learning Fergus Faces Trial While Finding Vandalized Tully-Veolan Where Gellatley Leads Him To Bradwardine Hiding In Janet's Hut

Ch.17 (64) Information Shared As Bradwardine Updates Situation And Plans

Ch.18 (65) Further Explanations Given At Dawn Escorting Bradwardine To Cave Hideout While Janet Reveals Remaining Mysteries Including Rose As Mysterious Woman Who Bribed Donald Bean Lean For Rescue In Ch37

Ch.19 (66): Visits Baillie Macwheeble Receiving Letter From Talbot Containing Royal Pardons For Himself And Bradwardine

Ch.20 (67): Announces Acceptance Of Pardon As Rose's Fiancé While Talbot Fails To Save Fergus At Edinburgh Trial

Ch.21 (68): Arrives At Carlisle As Fergus And Maccombich Are Sentenced And Interviews Flora

Ch.22 (69): Bids Farewell As Fergus Is Taken For Execution

Ch.23 (70) Dulce Domum Achieved With Marriage To Rose After Preparations In England And Scotland

Ch.24 (71): Wedding Party Visits Restored Tully-Veolan Estate With Talbot Arranging Restoration Following Baron's Forfeiture

Ch.25 (72) Postscript Intended As Preface Offers Author's Final Commentary Dedicated To Henry Mackenzie

Tolerance

Scott's writings reveal the impact of the 18th-century Enlightenment, highlighting the fundamental goodness of all individuals regardless of their social rank, faith, political stance, or heritage. A prominent theme throughout his historical narratives is tolerance. The Waverley Novels promote societal advancement that honors established customs. He was among the pioneering novelists to depict peasant figures with empathy and authenticity, while portraying merchants, soldiers, and monarchs with impartiality.

L J Swingle's analysis of Romantic-era authors notes:

This exploration of unique identities accounts for why mental perspectives in literature from this period frequently involve "species" identification. A notable instance is found in Frankenstein, where the protagonist ultimately aligns with his own kind, reminiscent of Scott's Edward Waverley.

Heroines

Alexander Welsh, a literary scholar, distinguishes two categories of heroines in the Waverley series: blondes and brunettes, reflecting Shakespearean archetypes but in a more tempered fashion. Welsh elaborates:

The ideal heroine is blonde—marked by beauty, wisdom, passivity, and ultimately marrying a similarly passive hero. Dark-haired heroines, though equally attractive, are motivated by passion rather than logic.

In Waverley, Rose represents the suitable blonde for marriage; Flora personifies passionate darkness. Welsh’s framework underscores how Scott’s narrators attribute feelings to female characters that male protagonists like Waverley often overlook.

Merryn Williams provides an alternative viewpoint: She observes that Scott’s female characters were acceptable to 19th-century audiences—morally firmer yet compliant with male dominance. Flora challenges Waverley but shows limited defiance toward Fergus, exerting constrained autonomy after his demise.

Another reading interprets Flora as embodying the past, while Rose symbolizes a contemporary rational Scotland following the post-Union period.

Humour

The initial chapters of Waverley are frequently perceived as solemn, partly influenced by Scott’s own comments at the conclusion of chapter five. Nevertheless, John Buchan regarded the novel as a "riot of fun and eccentricity," an opinion less commonly held. Scott incorporates comedic elements by employing picaresque techniques, visible in features such as the transmission of news via Dyers Weekly Letter, the self-explanatory name of the lawyer Clippurse, and Sir Everard’s chase after Lady Emily.

Scott alludes to the Old Testament tale of David and his followers seeking refuge near Adullam. When the Jacobite forces advance southward through northern England, anticipated backing from English Jacobites or Tories fails to materialize due to suspicion. Only a handful of desperate recruits join them, leading the Baron of Bradwardine to compare these men to David’s companions at the Cave of Adullam: "videlicet, every one that was in distress, debt, or discontented," who "will prove mighty men," emphasizing their crucial support.

Fear of internal conflict

The split within the Waverley family originates from the mid-1600s English Civil War. The novel conveys an underlying apprehension about civil war, not merely as a backdrop but as a profound unease shared by Scott himself. This theme is reinforced through allusions to Shakespeare’s plays Henry V and Henry VI found in chapter 71.

Quixotic tendencies

Edward Waverley is depicted by Scott as resembling Don Quixote in his pursuit of knowledge through wide-ranging yet "unstructured" reading. However, Scott distinguishes his character from Cervantes' Quixote by explaining that rather than misunderstanding reality, Waverley’s imagination merely romanticizes actual events.

19th century

Upon its publication, Waverley enjoyed significant acclaim, with the majority of critics applauding its lifelike characters and depiction of social customs. Some critiques differed: The Anti-Jacobin Review and The Critical Review considered it excessively Scottish; The British Critic pointed out elements of caricature and broad humor; while The Scourge lamented its lack of emotional depth. The Quarterly Review likened it to pleasant Dutch paintings, suggesting Scott concentrate on historical subjects. Francis Jeffrey writing in The Edinburgh Review remarked that certain sections appeared rushed and that the direct reader addresses seemed somewhat irreverent. Although initially anonymous, many identified Scott as the author, including contemporaries like Jane Austen, who reluctantly admitted the novel’s merit despite disliking his intrusion into fiction.

Letitia Elizabeth Landon expressed admiration for Scott by composing poetic pieces inspired by scenes from Waverley, such as Daniel Maclise’s artwork The Hall of Glennaquoich. A Highland Feast.

In Conversations with Goethe, the German writer praised Waverley as Scott’s finest novel and ranked him alongside Lord Byron and Thomas Moore among leading English authors. Goethe emphasized Scott’s meticulousness and profound understanding of reality developed through lifelong scholarship.

In 1815, Scott had a dinner meeting with George, Prince Regent, who was eager to meet the "author of Waverley." This encounter likely influenced George’s subsequent claim to be a Jacobite Highland chieftain during his 1822 Scottish visit.

20th century

E. M. Forster is often regarded as one of Scott’s most severe critics; however, some Scott experts argue this criticism arises from a lack of familiarity with Scottish culture. This controversy continues within academic circles, notably addressed in Allan Massie’s 1991 lecture defending Scott as a champion of national identity against English disparagement. Others believe this defense oversimplifies Forster’s viewpoint.

Georg Lukács played a pivotal role in restoring Scott’s reputation as a serious novelist. He recognized Waverley as the first significant modern historical novel, setting it apart from eighteenth-century novels of manners by focusing on history’s influence on communities. Lukács considered its appearance concurrent with Napoleon's downfall a major literary milestone.

Namesakes

• The novel has lent its name to several locations and landmarks, including Waverley Station in Edinburgh, as well as Waverley Park, Waverley Place streets, and the Waverley Line railway; the nearby Scott Monument also commemorates this connection.
• A fleet of paddle steamers bearing the name PS Waverley continues this tradition, with the current vessel carrying on the legacy.
• In 1833, New York City's Greenwich Village saw the naming of Waverly Place, inspired by the novel but with a slight spelling alteration.
• The Waverley Pen, produced by MacNiven & Cameron in Edinburgh starting in 1864, was named after the book, following the earlier invention of the Waverley nib in 1850.
• The New Zealand town of Waverley also traces its name back to the novel.
• Many towns across the United States share this namesake, such as:
  • Waverly, Alabama
  • Waverly, Florida
  • Waverly Hall, Georgia
  • Waverly, Iowa
  • Waverly, Kentucky
  • Waverly neighborhood, Baltimore, Maryland
  • Waverly, Missouri
  • Waverly, Nebraska, where several streets honor the novel’s title
  • Waverly, New York
  • Waverly, Ohio
  • Waverly, Pennsylvania
  • Waverly, Tennessee
  • Waverly, Virginia
• Historic properties such as the Waverley (West Point, Mississippi) mansion and Waverly (Marriottsville, Maryland), a former plantation worked by enslaved people, were also named in tribute to Scott’s work.
• In Australia:
  • The Sydney suburb of Waverley took its name from Waverley House (built in 1827 by Barnett Levey), which itself was named after the novel; this area later became Waverley Municipality in 1859.
  • Melbourne features suburbs named Glen Waverley and Mount Waverley, both reflecting this heritage.
• In Canada, the village of Waverley in Nova Scotia was named by entrepreneur Charles P. Allen in homage to the book.

Miscellany

• The character "Fergus Mac-Ivor" from Waverley drew inspiration from Alexander Ranaldson MacDonell of Glengarry—a flamboyant clan leader known for his unexpected appearances during King George IV's visit to Scotland.
• Bertrand Russell examined the phrase "Scott is the author of Waverley" within his essay "On Denoting".
• Davie Gellatley, portrayed as a naive or simple-minded figure in the novel, is thought to be modeled on Jamie Fleeman, who served as the Laird of Udny’s Fool.

Original volumes

• Waverley; or, ’Tis Sixty Years Since. Three volumes. Edinburgh: James Ballantyne and Co. for Archibald Constable and Co., 1814.

External links

• Waverley at the Walter Scott Digital Archive
• Online Edition at eBooks@Adelaide

• The Waverley Novels. Old and Sold Antiques Digest (1912)