Waverley

Early in the novel, Edward notices the national and regional prejudices espoused by many people around Great Britain. Before leaving Waverley-Honour, he is warned by its residents that in Scotland he will be exposed to “unhallowed and pernicious doctrines in church and state” (142). However, Scott takes pains to show the nuance and diversity of the people and cultures of Scotland, negating many long-held prejudices against his countrymen and humanizing them for his non-Scottish readers. Edward begins his stay in Scotland believing many common stereotypes about the Scots. He is at first unnerved by Bradwardine’s dinner party, but he quickly grows fond of the Baron and his company, recognizing that despite his political differences he is still treated warmly at Tully-Veolan. When he first enters the Highlands and meets Donald Bean Lean and his companions, he assumes the secret cave he is taken to will be the dwelling of wild and savage thieves. He is surprised when Donald greets him in his French military uniform and begins to talk politics with him. In this and many other ways throughout the novel, Scott emphasizes that Scottish people and culture are far more nuanced than many of the contemporary assumptions made about them.