Rob Roy: Analysis of Major Characters
"Rob Roy: Analysis of Major Characters" delves into the intricate relationships and motivations of key figures in Sir Walter Scott's historical novel "Rob Roy." Central to the narrative is Frank Osbaldistone, a young man grappling with familial expectations and personal ambitions, who becomes entangled in the tumultuous political landscape of early 18th-century Scotland. His character arc is significantly shaped by his encounters with Rob Roy, a charismatic outlaw who emerges as both a mentor and a catalyst for Frank's personal growth.
The analysis also highlights Rashleigh Osbaldistone, Frank's duplicitous cousin, whose betrayal and embezzlement directly impact the family business and the broader Jacobite cause. Diana Vernon, a spirited and strong-willed woman, captures Frank's heart despite their differing religious backgrounds, embodying themes of love and societal conflict. Supporting characters such as Sir Hildebrand Osbaldistone and Sir Frederick Vernon further deepen the exploration of loyalty and betrayal within the context of the Jacobite uprising. Through these characters, the text examines themes of honor, identity, and the struggle against oppression, offering insights into the complexities of Scottish history and culture.
Rob Roy: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Sir Walter Scott
First published: 1817
Genre: Novel
Locale: Northumberland and Glasgow
Plot: Historical
Time: 1715
Frank Osbaldistone, a young man who has been sent abroad to learn his father's mercantile business and whose progress has not been satisfactory. He is sent to his uncle's home to find his replacement among his uncle's sons. He and his cousin Rashleigh, who takes the position, dislike each other immediately. On the way to his uncle's house, Frank meets Rob Roy, an outlaw, without knowing who he is. He also falls in love with Diana Vernon, whom he meets on the way to his uncle's home. After the Jacobite revolt, Frank inherits all of his uncle's lands and marries Diana, in spite of the fact that she is a Catholic and he is a Presbyterian.
Rashleigh Osbaldistone, Frank's cousin, who takes a position with Osbaldistone and Tresham and proceeds to embezzle funds from the firm. He betrays the Stuart cause and is disinherited.
William Osbaldistone, Frank's businessman father. He does not like the idea of Frank marrying a papist, but at last he consents.
Sir Hildebrand Osbaldistone, Frank's uncle and one of the plotters in the Jacobite uprising. He dies at Newgate after willing Frank all of his property.
Diana Vernon, Sir Hildebrand's niece, with whom Frank falls in love. She is a Catholic and an outspoken girl.
Rob Roy (MacGregor Campbell), a Scottish outlaw. He befriends Frank and helps him discover that Rashleigh is embezzling funds from Osbaldistone and Tresham. When Frank is arrested while on the way to meet him, Rob Roy's wife Helen leads an attack on the arresting soldiers and frees Frank. Meanwhile, Rob Roy has been captured, but he escapes by throwing himself into a river. After the Jacobite revolt, Rob Roy kills Rashleigh when that turncoat comes to arrest Diana and her father.
Sir Frederick Vernon, Diana's father and a Jacobite.