Tales from Benedictine Sources

The Monastery' is a novel by Walter Scott that tells the story of the Monastery of Kennaquhair and its mysterious occupants and supernatural situations. The monastery is on the brink of destruction as not only are Protestant soldiers marching on it but its inhabitants are plagued by betrayal and infighting. The tale revolves around Halbert and Edward, two troublesome brothers who are both in love with the same woman, Mary. Tensions are already high in the abbey due to sightings of a celestial spectre before Piercie Shafton, an Englishman on the run for treason, arrives to seek solitude. Piercie is one of Scott's funniest characters as he pompously pursues Mary, much to the chagrin of Halbert, who challenges Piercie to a duel that will determine the fate of the monastery and all its occupants. 'The Monastery' is written in the gothic tradition as the haunting White Lady plagues the characters. Scott's romantic style is still present as the White Lady is an incredibly poetic character and he uses lyrical prose to portray an abbey on the verge of ruin. 'The Monastery' is a highly dramatic story, laced with political intrigue, social satire, and haunting imagery that will stick with readers long after they have finished it. This thrilling novel will have readers on the edge of their seats awaiting the fate of the monastery and its citizens and is recommended for fans of gothic literature.

'The Abbot' is a historical fiction novel about Mary Queen of Scots' thrilling escape from prison and is considered by many to be one of Walter Scott's finest works. The gripping novel continues the story of Halbert and Mary Glendinning from 'The Monastery' but can easily be read on its own. The protagonist is a poor orphan boy, Roland who is adopted by Halbert and Mary. Many years later, Roland is sent to spy on Mary Queen of Scots while she is imprisoned, but he falls in love with her attendant Catherine, and they plot to help her escape. 'The Abbot' features some of Scott's finest dramatic writing as true identities are revealed, brutal battles ensue, and forbidden romances blossom over the course of the novel. Scott depicts the Scottish countryside beautifully with his poetic prose while providing a humanist perspective on religion and romance. Celebrated widely at the time of its release, 'The Abbot' remains entertaining to this day and should be read by fans of Scott and romantic adventures.