Characters.—What characters are historical?
Are the others true to life? Are they too good, or too bad, too brave, or too foolish?
Compare Malcolm and Roderick. Which makes the stronger appeal to your interest? Why?
How did the clansmen regard Roderick? Why? Name some of his virtues.
In the struggle between James and Roderick, which one do you wish to be successful? Why?
What qualities do you admire in Ellen?
Interpretation.—Was Scott's purpose merely to tell an interesting story, or to present a period of history, or to teach some ethical truth, or to present high ideals of character, or all of these combined? Give your reasons carefully.
Method of Narration.—Who tells the story?
Suggest some of the changes that would have been necessary if the author had made Ellen or Douglas tell it.