The Lady of the Lake by Walter Scott

First published in 1810, Sir Walter Scott’s The Lady of the Lake is a narrative poem set in the majestic Scottish Highlands. Told in six cantos, it weaves a tale of romance, clan rivalry, and chivalry centered on the beautiful Ellen Douglas, the noble James Fitz-James, and the fierce Highland chieftain Roderick Dhu. With its rich imagery, lyrical verse, and dramatic storytelling, the poem captures the spirit and landscape of Scotland, contributing to the romanticized image of the Highlands that endures today. A literary and cultural landmark, The Lady of the Lake remains one of Scott’s most celebrated and influential works.