1910 The Heart Of Mid-Lothian - Sir Walter Scott(Illust Wal Paget, Sir J. E. Millais, Hugh Cameron etc)Waverley Novel VI

"The Heart of Mid-Lothian" is one of the Waverley Novels by Sir Walter Scott, first published in 1818. It is often considered one of Scott's finest works and forms part of his series of novels set in the historical past of Scotland. The novel's title refers to the Old Tolbooth prison in Edinburgh, known as the Heart of Midlothian.

### Plot Summary

The novel is set in the early 18th century and opens with the Porteous Riots of 1736, an event where Captain John Porteous, the captain of the city guard, ordered his men to fire into a crowd, leading to several deaths. He was subsequently arrested, but after being granted a reprieve, a mob broke into the Tolbooth and lynched him.

The central plot revolves around Jeanie Deans, a young and devout Presbyterian woman, and her sister Effie Deans. Effie is accused of killing her newborn child, a crime punishable by death. Jeanie undertakes a dangerous journey on foot from Edinburgh to London to plead for her sister's life before the Queen. Her journey is filled with challenges, but her determination and virtue ultimately help her secure Effie's pardon.

### Themes

1. **Justice and Mercy**: The novel explores themes of justice and the law, contrasting the rigid legal system with the human capacity for mercy.
2. **Religious Faith and Morality**: Jeanie's strong Presbyterian faith guides her actions throughout the novel, emphasizing the role of personal integrity and moral courage.
3. **Social and Political Commentary**: Scott provides a detailed picture of Scottish society in the 18th century, addressing issues such as social class, the legal system, and the conflict between different religious and political factions.

### Characters

- **Jeanie Deans**: The novel's heroine, known for her moral integrity and determination.
- **Effie Deans**: Jeanie’s younger sister, whose trial for infanticide drives the main plot.
- **David Deans**: Jeanie and Effie's father, a staunch Presbyterian.
- **Reuben Butler**: Jeanie's love interest, a schoolteacher, and later a minister.
- **George Staunton**: Effie’s lover and the father of her child, whose actions indirectly cause much of the novel's conflict.
- **Queen Caroline**: The queen consort, who listens to Jeanie's plea and grants Effie a pardon.

### Historical Context

Scott incorporates historical events and figures into his narrative, blending fact and fiction. The depiction of the Porteous Riots and the portrayal of the Old Tolbooth are based on real events, providing a vivid backdrop to the story. Scott's novel also reflects the social and religious tensions of 18th-century Scotland, especially the conflict between different Presbyterian factions.

### Literary Significance

"The Heart of Mid-Lothian" is celebrated for its complex characters, especially the portrayal of Jeanie Deans as a strong and virtuous woman. Scott's use of Scottish dialect and his detailed descriptions of Scottish customs and landscapes add authenticity to the narrative. The novel's blend of historical events with fiction set a precedent for the historical novel genre.

In conclusion, "The Heart of Mid-Lothian" is a significant work in Sir Walter Scott's oeuvre and in the broader context of historical fiction. Its exploration of justice, morality, and social issues, combined with its vivid historical setting, make it a compelling read.