Sir Walter Scott: A Lecture at the Sorbonne

"Sir Walter Scott: A Lecture at the Sorbonne" by W. P. Ker is a scholarly lecture delivered in 1919 that explores the enduring impact of Sir Walter Scott's writings on the Romantic literary period. This literary work contemplates Scott's distinctive approach to storytelling, his widespread appeal beyond Scotland, and the multifaceted nature of his characters and plots. Ker analyzes Scott's contrasting legacy, noting his enthusiastic reception throughout Europe alongside criticisms of his historical interpretations and political views. By referencing comments from critics such as Stendhal and Hazlitt, Ker asserts that Scott's work transcends superficial romantic elements, emphasizing his skillfully crafted characters and engaging dialogue. Using instances from well-known novels like "Ivanhoe" and "Rob Roy," Ker illustrates the core of Scott's storytelling method, demonstrating how his close relationship with Scottish culture and history infused his narratives, rendering them both reflective and groundbreaking.