Sir Walter Scott A Lecture at the Sorbonne By: W. P. (William Paton) Ker (1855-1923)
In "Sir Walter Scott: A Lecture at the Sorbonne," W. P. Ker delves into the life and works of one of Scotland's greatest literary icons - Sir Walter Scott. Through this enthralling lecture, Ker captivates readers with his insightful exploration of Scott's contributions to the world of literature and his lasting influence on the Romantic movement. Ker's lecture is not a lengthy and exhaustive analysis of Scott's entire bibliography, but rather a concise yet comprehensive overview of his major works. He skillfully highlights the key themes, characters, and narratives that made Scott's novels exceptional and beloved by readers across generations. What sets this lecture apart is Ker's engaging writing style. He seamlessly weaves together historical context, literary analysis, and personal anecdotes to present a well-rounded portrait of Scott's life and career. Ker succeeds in capturing the essence of Scott's writing, making readers feel as though they are standing alongside the author himself, immersing in the enchanting landscapes of the Scottish Highlands or experiencing the excitement of historical events Scott so vividly portrays. Furthermore, Ker's deep admiration for Scott shines through his words. His passion for the subject matter is contagious, and readers cannot help but develop an appreciation for Scott's literary prowess and his ability to transport readers to different times and places through his imagination. While some may argue that this lecture merely scratches the surface of Scott's vast literary accomplishments, it serves as an excellent introduction for those new to his works or seeking a concise refresher. Ker adeptly distills complex themes and narratives into easily digestible insights, allowing readers to understand and appreciate the significance of Scott's writing within the context of its time. Despite its brevity, "Sir Walter Scott: A Lecture at the Sorbonne" packs a punch. It leaves readers captivated and yearning for more knowledge about the author and his works. Ker's lecture is not only an informative piece of literary criticism but also a heartfelt tribute to a literary giant whose impact continues to resonate in the world of literature. In conclusion, W. P. Ker's "Sir Walter Scott: A Lecture at the Sorbonne" is an enlightening and captivating exploration of the life and works of Sir Walter Scott. It offers readers a glimpse into the genius of this influential Scottish writer and highlights the enduring power of his storytelling. Anyone with an interest in Scott's literature, the Romantic period, or simply great storytelling will find this lecture to be an enriching experience. First Page: SIR WALTER SCOTT A Lecture at the Sorbonne, May 22, 1919, in the series of Conférences Louis Liard BY WILLIAM PATON KER, LL.D. GLASGOW MACLEHOSE, JACKSON AND CO. PUBLISHERS TO THE UNIVERSITY 1919 NOTE This Essay appeared in the Anglo French Review , August, 1919, and I am obliged to the Editor and Publisher for leave to reprint it. W. P. K. Sir Walter Scott When I was asked to choose a subject for a lecture at the Sorbonne, there came into my mind somehow or other the incident of Scott's visit to Paris when he went to see Ivanhoe at the Odéon, and was amused to think how the story had travelled and made its fortune: 'It was an opera, and, of course, the story sadly mangled and the dialogue in great part nonsense. Yet it was strange to hear anything like the words which (then in an agony of pain with spasms in my stomach) I dictated to William Laidlaw at Abbotsford, now recited in a foreign tongue, and for the amusement of a strange people. I little thought to have survived the completing of this novel.' It seemed to me that here I had a text for my sermon. The cruel circumstances of the composition of Ivanhoe might be neglected. The interesting... Continue reading book >>

Sir Walter Scott A Lecture at the Sorbonne By: W. P. (William Paton) Ker (1855-1923)

In "Sir Walter Scott: A Lecture at the Sorbonne," W. P. Ker delves into the life and works of one of Scotland's greatest literary icons - Sir Walter Scott. Through this enthralling lecture, Ker captivates readers with his insightful exploration of Scott's contributions to the world of literature and his lasting influence on the Romantic movement.

Ker's lecture is not a lengthy and exhaustive analysis of Scott's entire bibliography, but rather a concise yet comprehensive overview of his major works. He skillfully highlights the key themes, characters, and narratives that made Scott's novels exceptional and beloved by readers across generations.

What sets this lecture apart is Ker's engaging writing style. He seamlessly weaves together historical context, literary analysis, and personal anecdotes to present a well-rounded portrait of Scott's life and career. Ker succeeds in capturing the essence of Scott's writing, making readers feel as though they are standing alongside the author himself, immersing in the enchanting landscapes of the Scottish Highlands or experiencing the excitement of historical events Scott so vividly portrays.

Furthermore, Ker's deep admiration for Scott shines through his words. His passion for the subject matter is contagious, and readers cannot help but develop an appreciation for Scott's literary prowess and his ability to transport readers to different times and places through his imagination.

While some may argue that this lecture merely scratches the surface of Scott's vast literary accomplishments, it serves as an excellent introduction for those new to his works or seeking a concise refresher. Ker adeptly distills complex themes and narratives into easily digestible insights, allowing readers to understand and appreciate the significance of Scott's writing within the context of its time.

Despite its brevity, "Sir Walter Scott: A Lecture at the Sorbonne" packs a punch. It leaves readers captivated and yearning for more knowledge about the author and his works. Ker's lecture is not only an informative piece of literary criticism but also a heartfelt tribute to a literary giant whose impact continues to resonate in the world of literature.

In conclusion, W. P. Ker's "Sir Walter Scott: A Lecture at the Sorbonne" is an enlightening and captivating exploration of the life and works of Sir Walter Scott. It offers readers a glimpse into the genius of this influential Scottish writer and highlights the enduring power of his storytelling. Anyone with an interest in Scott's literature, the Romantic period, or simply great storytelling will find this lecture to be an enriching experience.

First Page:

SIR WALTER SCOTT

A Lecture at the Sorbonne, May 22, 1919, in the series of Conférences Louis Liard

WILLIAM PATON KER, LL.D.

GLASGOW

MACLEHOSE, JACKSON AND CO.

PUBLISHERS TO THE UNIVERSITY

1919

NOTE

This Essay appeared in the Anglo French Review , August, 1919, and I am obliged to the Editor and Publisher for leave to reprint it.

W. P. K.

Sir Walter Scott

When I was asked to choose a subject for a lecture at the Sorbonne, there came into my mind somehow or other the incident of Scott's visit to Paris when he went to see Ivanhoe at the Odéon, and was amused to think how the story had travelled and made its fortune:

'It was an opera, and, of course, the story sadly mangled and the dialogue in great part nonsense. Yet it was strange to hear anything like the words which (then in an agony of pain with spasms in my stomach) I dictated to William Laidlaw at Abbotsford, now recited in a foreign tongue, and for the amusement of a strange people. I little thought to have survived the completing of this novel.'

It seemed to me that here I had a text for my sermon. The cruel circumstances of the composition of Ivanhoe might be neglected. The interesting... Continue reading book >>

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