Starvation Dundas, Henry Dundas, the first Lord Melville. So called because he introduced the word starvation into the language (1775).
Starveling (Robin), the tailor. He was cast for the part of “Thisbe’s mother,” in the drama played before Duke Theseus (2 syl.) on “his wedding day at night.” Starveling has nothing to say in the drama.--Shakespeare, Midsummer Night’s Dream (1592).
Stati´ra, the heroine of La Calprenède’s romance of Cassandra. Statīra is the daughter of Darīus, and is represented as the “most perfect of the works of creation.” Oroondatês is in love with her, and ultimately marries her.
Statira, daughter of Dari´us, and wife of Alexander. Young, beautiful, womanly, of strong affection, noble bearing, mild yet haughty, yielding yet brave. Her love for Alexander was unbounded. When her royal husband took Roxāna into favor, the proud spirit of the princess was indignant, but Alexander, by his love, won her back again. Statira was murdered by Roxana, the Bactrian, called the “Rival Queen.”--N. Lee, Alexander The Great (1678).
Staunton (The Rev. Mr.), rector of Willingham, and father of George Staunton.
George Staunton, son of the Rev. Mr. Staunton. He appears first as “Geordie Robertson,” a felon; and in the Porteous mob he assumes the guise of “Madge Wildfire.” George Staunton is the seducer of Effie Deans. Ultimately he comes to the title of baronet, marries Effie, and is shot by a gypsy boy called “The Whistler,” who proves to be his own natural son.
Lady Staunton, Effie Deans, after her marriage with Sir George. On the death of her husband, she retires to a convent on the Continent.--Sir W. Scott, Heart of Midlothian (time, George II.).
Steadfast, a friend of the Duberly family.--Colman, The Heir-at-Law (1797).
Steel Castle, a strong ward, belonging to the Yellow Dwarf. Here he confined All-Fair when she refused to marry him according to her promise.--Comtesse D’Aunoy, Fairy Tales (“The Yellow Dwarf,” 1682).
Steenson (Willie), or “Wandering Willie,” the blind fiddler.