Poetry from the Waverley Novels and Other Works

This scholarly edition presents the first reliably identified collection of Walter Scotts original poetry in the Waverley Novels, letters, and Journal, showcasing his versatility in verse forms and range of voice. It provides full textual and explanatory annotation and an essay exploring the boundary between new creation and quotation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 496 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2024
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

This scholarly edition presents the first reliably identified collection of Walter Scott's original poetry within the Waverley Novels, letters, and Journal. Previous editors faced challenges in distinguishing between quotation and original writing, but modern databases have enabled the accurate identification of these poems as Scott's own. This collection showcases Scott's remarkable versatility in manipulating verse forms and his exceptional range of vocal styles. The poetry within the Waverley Novels often takes on a dramatic nature, being spoken or sung by one of the characters. Mottoes placed at the beginning of chapters often serve as critical commentary on the narrative. The poetry found in the letters and Journal frequently exhibits a witty and self-deprecating tone. Additionally, there are numerous brilliant parodies. Understanding the meaning of these poems requires consideration of their context, and this edition provides comprehensive textual and explanatory annotation, along with an essay that delves into the blurred line between original creation and quotation.

Weight: 742g
Dimension: 224 x 148 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399522656