Set within a framing narrative, these three stories take place in the years following the Jacobite defeat and feature characters who are leaving Scotland to seek their fortunes elsewhere. In two of Walter Scott's best-known tales, "The Highland Widow" and "The Two Drovers," two young men are torn between traditional Scottish loyalties and the opportunities offered by England. "The Surgeon's Daughter" follows three young Scots to India during the first years of the British Empire. All three highlight Scott's unique gift for re-creating the spirit of historical eras and painting stirring portraits of Scottish people.

Table of Contents: INTRODUCTION: Famous Authors on Scott SIR WALTER SCOTT AND LADY MORGAN by Victor Hugo MEMORIES AND PORTRAITS by Robert Louis Stevenson SCOTT AND HIS PUBLISHERS by Charles Dickens SHORT STORIES: Chronicles of the Canongate CHRONICLES OF THE CANONGATE - INTRODUCTORY THE HIGHLAND WIDOW THE TWO DROVERS THE SURGEON'S DAUGHTER The Keepsake Stories MY AUNT MARGARET'S MIRROR THE TAPESTRIED CHAMBER DEATH OF THE LAIRD'S JOCK Other Short Stories CHRISTOPHER CORDUROY PHANTASMAGORIA THE INFERNO OF ALTISIDORA A HIGHLAND ANECDOTE DEPRAVITY AMONG ANIMALS BIOGRAPHY: SIR WALTER SCOTT by George Saintsbury SIR WALTER SCOTT by Richard H. Hutton MEMOIRS OF THE LIFE OF SIR WALTER SCOTT by J.G. Lockhart.

In 'The Complete Short Stories of Sir Walter Scott', readers are taken on a literary journey through the captivating world of 19th-century Scotland. Scott's masterful storytelling shines through in each of the diverse stories included in this collection, from the historical fiction of 'Chronicles of the Canongate' to the haunting tales in 'The Keepsake Stories'. The vivid descriptions and complex characters showcase Scott's ability to transport his audience to different time periods and settings, making this compilation a must-read for fans of Scottish literature. Scott's use of language is rich and poetic, reflecting the Romantic literary tradition of his time. His attention to detail and exploration of human nature add depth to each story, leaving readers both entertained and enlightened. Sir Walter Scott's own experiences as a lawyer, historian, and poet provided him with a unique perspective that undoubtedly influenced the themes and characters found in these short stories. His deep connection to Scottish culture and history is evident throughout the collection, making it a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike. I highly recommend 'The Complete Short Stories of Sir Walter Scott' to anyone interested in exploring the works of a literary genius whose impact continues to be felt today.