Walter Scott: The Novelist Who Boosted The Middle Ages
Introduction
Walter Scott was a prolific Scottish novelist and poet who is widely considered to be the founder of the modern historical novel. He is best known for his novels set in the Middle Ages, which helped to revive interest in this period of history and sparked a revival of medieval literature and culture throughout Europe. Scott's novels were hugely influential in the 19th century, and his work has been credited with helping to shape the modern understanding of the Middle Ages. In this article, we will explore the life and works of Walter Scott, and how his writing helped to boost the Middle Ages.
Early Life
Walter Scott was born in Edinburgh in 1771. His father was a lawyer, and his mother was a woman of strong religious faith. Scott was educated at the University of Edinburgh, where he studied law. After graduating, he worked as a clerk in his father's law firm and quickly rose to a prominent position. In 1796, he married Charlotte Charpentier and had six children with her.
Career
Scott began writing poetry in his spare time and soon achieved some degree of fame. His poem The Lay of the Last Minstrel was published in 1805 and became a bestseller. Following this success, Scott wrote a series of novels set in the Middle Ages, beginning with Waverley in 1814. His novels were highly successful, and he soon became one of the most popular authors of the 19th century.
The Middle Ages
Scott's novels set in the Middle Ages were hugely influential in shaping the modern view of this period of history. He romanticized the Middle Ages, portraying it as a time of chivalry and heroism. His works helped to revive interest in the Middle Ages and sparked a revival of medieval literature and culture throughout Europe. Scott's novels also helped to popularize the use of the term "Middle Ages".
Influence
Scott's influence on literature and culture was immense. His works were hugely popular in the 19th century, and he was credited with helping to shape the modern understanding of the Middle Ages. He also had a huge influence on later authors, such as Charles Dickens and William Makepeace Thackeray, who were both heavily influenced by his works.
Legacy
Walter Scott's legacy continues to this day. His works are still widely read and appreciated, and his influence on literature and culture can still be felt. His novels set in the Middle Ages helped to revive interest in this period of history and sparked a revival of medieval literature and culture throughout Europe. He is rightly regarded as one of the most important figures in 19th century literature.
Conclusion
Walter Scott was a hugely influential novelist and poet who is widely considered to be the founder of the modern historical novel. He is best known for his novels set in the Middle Ages, which helped to revive interest in this period of history and sparked a revival of medieval literature and culture throughout Europe. Scott's influence on literature and culture was immense, and his legacy continues to this day. He was a towering figure in 19th century literature, and his works are still widely read and appreciated.
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