Sir Walter Scott Appreciation discussion

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In these chapters we are introduced to some main characters; Douce Davie Deans and his daughters Jeanie and Effie, and the Butler family.
Any thoughts on these people?

Jeannie is one of my favorite Walter Scott characters. I'm trying to remember if this is his only novel with a female main character - there were Anne of Geierstein and The Fair Maid of Perth, but I think they were overshadowed by the men in the books. Jeannie is also what we'd call "working class," not a princess or anyone with a title.

Lori wrote: "Jeannie is one of my favorite Walter Scott characters. I'm trying to remember if this is his only novel with a female main character - there were Anne of Geierstein and The Fair Maid of Perth, but ..."

Good point to note.

I find David Deans to be extremely harsh, self-centred and completely oblivious to the feelings of others. I feel sorry for both his daughters. Jeannie, because she deserves a better life and Effie because her father judges her so harshly.
I agree with you, Lori, Jeannie is a special character.

Rosemarie wrote: "I find David Deans to be extremely harsh, self-centred and completely oblivious to the feelings of others. I feel sorry for both his daughters. Jeannie, because she deserves a better life and Effie..."

Deans is indeed intractable and bigoted. Can you see any good qualities he has despite this?

This week's reading brings us to the end of the 1st volume of the 4 that this book was originally published as. At this point of the story:
1. Who is your favourite male character and why?
2. What are the differences and similarities of the Dean sisters?
3. Who is the stranger who wants to meet with Jeanie?

Deans is hard on himself too. I am sure he is suffering but doesn't want anyone to know.

Rosemarie wrote: "Deans is hard on himself too. I am sure he is suffering but doesn't want anyone to know."

I feel he is a man struggling with inner turmoil. His love of his daughter is wrestling with his beliefs that he has held for a long time. I believe this is a crossroads for him and hope it will prove to be the motivation for him turning from the pharisaical letter of the law type of a Christian to a good Samaritan.