Catriona (novel) facts for kids
.jpg) |
|
| Author | Robert Louis Stevenson |
|---|---|
| Illustrator | William Brassey Hole |
| Country | Scotland |
| Language | English, Lowland Scots |
| Genre | Adventure, historical |
| Publisher | Cassell and Company Ltd |
|
Publication date
|
1893 |
| Pages | 371 |
| Preceded by | Kidnapped (1886) |
Catriona (also called David Balfour) is an exciting adventure novel written by Robert Louis Stevenson. It was published in 1893. This book is a sequel, meaning it continues the story from his earlier famous novel, Kidnapped (1886). The story follows the main character, David Balfour, on new adventures.
Contents
About the Story
Catriona picks up right after the events of Kidnapped. The main character, David Balfour, is trying to clear his name. He also wants to make sure justice is served for a murder he witnessed. The story is set in Scotland and the Netherlands in the 1750s.
David's Quest for Justice
David Balfour is a young man who has been through a lot. He survived being kidnapped and shipwrecked. Now, he wants to tell the truth about the Appin Murder. This was a real historical event. He hopes to help his friend, James Stewart of the Glens, who is wrongly accused.
David tries to get important people to listen to his story. He meets lawyers and judges. But many people don't want to hear what he has to say. They are afraid of powerful families. This makes David's mission very difficult.
Meeting Catriona
While trying to find justice, David meets a young woman named Catriona Drummond. She is the daughter of James More MacGregor. He is a famous, but tricky, Highland chief. Catriona is beautiful and spirited. She quickly becomes very important to David.
Their relationship is complicated. Catriona's father causes many problems. He tries to use David for his own plans. David must decide if he can trust Catriona. He also has to protect her from her own father.
Adventures in Europe
David's journey takes him from Scotland to the Netherlands. He travels to places like Leiden and The Hague. He hopes to find safety and continue his fight for justice there. But even abroad, danger follows him.
He meets new people and faces new challenges. These adventures test his courage and his loyalty. David learns a lot about the world and himself. He also learns about love and betrayal.
Main Characters
The novel features several memorable characters. Each one plays a key role in David's journey.
David Balfour
David is the hero of the story. He is a kind and honest young man. He is determined to do what is right. Even when things are hard, he keeps going. He grows a lot throughout the book. He learns to be more independent and brave.
Catriona Drummond
Catriona is a strong and independent young woman. She is proud of her Highland heritage. She is also very loyal to her family, even her difficult father. Catriona is smart and brave. She often helps David in unexpected ways.
James More MacGregor
Catriona's father is a complex character. He is a famous outlaw. He is charming but also very selfish. He often puts his daughter and others in danger. He represents the wilder, less lawful side of the Highlands.
Alan Breck Stewart
Alan Breck is David's loyal friend from Kidnapped. He is a brave Highland warrior. He continues to help David in Catriona. Alan is a symbol of loyalty and adventure. He often gives David advice, even if it's sometimes a bit rough.
Themes in the Novel
Catriona explores several important ideas. These themes make the story more than just an adventure.
Justice and Fairness
A big part of the story is David's search for justice. He wants to clear his friend's name. He also wants to make sure the truth is known. The book shows how hard it can be to find justice. Especially when powerful people are involved.
Loyalty and Betrayal
The novel looks at different kinds of loyalty. David is loyal to his friends. Catriona is loyal to her family. But characters also face betrayal. This makes them question who they can trust.
Love and Family
The relationship between David and Catriona is central to the story. It shows how love can grow even in difficult situations. The book also explores family ties. It shows how family can be a source of both strength and trouble.
Growing Up
David Balfour starts as a young, inexperienced boy in Kidnapped. In Catriona, he continues to mature. He faces adult challenges. He learns to make his own decisions. The story is about his journey into manhood.
Legacy and Impact
Catriona is an important book in Scottish literature. It continues the story of a beloved character. It also gives readers a look into Scottish history.
Robert Louis Stevenson was a master storyteller. He wrote many famous adventure novels. Catriona is a great example of his skill. It combines exciting plot with deep characters. It also explores important ideas. The book remains popular with readers who love adventure and history.
