The Scottish Chiefs: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Scottish Chiefs: Analysis of Major Characters" delves into the key figures involved in the thirteenth-century struggle for Scottish independence. Central to the narrative is Sir William Wallace, a courageous leader whose efforts to liberate Scotland from English rule lead to his execution as a traitor. Following Wallace's death, Robert Bruce emerges as a pivotal character, ultimately defeating the English at the Battle of Bannockburn and becoming king of Scotland. The analysis also highlights the complexities of betrayal, as exemplified by Sir John Monteith, who initially supports Wallace but later betrays him to the English.
Other notable figures include the Earl of Mar, a staunch ally whose death in battle underscores the personal sacrifices made during the conflict, and Lady Mar, whose false accusation contributes to Wallace's downfall. The dynamics of loyalty and love are further explored through Lady Wallace, who is killed for her steadfastness, and Lady Helen Mar, who marries Wallace shortly before his execution. The narrative also introduces characters like Edward I, the English king, and various Scottish nobles who navigate the turbulent political landscape of the time, revealing diverse perspectives on the fight for Scottish sovereignty. This character analysis provides a rich understanding of the motivations and consequences faced by those involved in this historical struggle.
The Scottish Chiefs: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Jane Porter
First published: 1810
Genre: Novel
Locale: Scotland, France, and England
Plot: Historical
Time: 1296–1305
Sir William Wallace, a Scottish patriot of the thirteenth century. He seeks to free Scotland from the domination of the English. He is a courageous leader and becomes regent of Scotland. His success is envied by other Scottish nobles, and he is delivered into the hands of the English, who execute him as a traitor.
Robert Bruce, a claimant to the Scottish throne. He joins Wallace's patriots and after Wallace's death assumes leadership, freeing Scotland by defeating the English at Bannock-burn. During the wars, he calls himself the Count de Longueville. He becomes king of Scotland after Bannockburn.
Sir John Monteith, a Scottish nobleman who gives Wallace a mysterious box that is not to be opened until Scotland is free. Monteith later turns against Wallace and betrays him to the English.
The Earl of Mar, an elderly Scots nobleman and patriot who is Wallace's friend. He is killed while fighting the English.
Lady Mar, the earl's wife, who wants to marry Wallace when she is a widow and he a widower. He refuses her and wins her enmity. It is her false accusation of treason that causes Wallace's death. She disguises herself for a time as the Knight of the Green Plume.
Lady Wallace, Sir William Wallace's wife. She is killed by the English when she refuses to betray her husband.
The abbot of St. Fillan, a loyal Scot who keeps the mysterious iron box through the war. The box contains the Scottish crown and royal vestments.
Edwin Ruthven, a faithful adherent to Wallace who dies defending his leader.
The Earl of Gloucester, an English nobleman who sides with the Scots, believing his father-in-law, Edward I, to be wrong in claiming Scotland as his.
Lady Helen Mar, a daughter of Lord Mar. She loves Wallace and marries him on the eve of his execution.
Lord de Valence, an English nobleman held as a hostage by Wallace.
Lord Cummins, a Scottish nobleman who distrusts Wallace's ambitions. He becomes regent after Wallace resigns.
Isabella Mar, a daughter of Lord Mar. She becomes Robert Bruce's queen.
Edward I, the king of England.