# Edward Waverley — Waverley character guide

> Edward Waverley in Waverley by Walter Scott.

**Role:** major

**Also known as:** Waverley, Captain Waverley, young Waverley, Mr. Edward Waverley

**First appearance:** 0005-waverley

## Snapshot

A bookish English gentleman raised on romance and poetry, he rides north to see the world and finds himself courted by a prince and a cause he barely understands.

## Who they are

Edward Waverley is heir to Waverley-Honour, educated in dreams of chivalry but untested by anything real, and his first journey into Scotland leaves him charmed by Highland hospitality and flattered by Jacobite attention. His fatal gift is imagination: he mistakes the glamour of a cause for conviction, and lets a prince's courtesy and a chieftain's friendship sweep him past every prudential warning. His wavering is the engine of the early book, since every reader watches a decent, unformed young man drift toward a rebellion he never deliberately chose.

## Relationships

### [Fergus MacIvor](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/characters/fergus_macivor)

_friendship_

Edward is drawn into the Jacobite cause through his close but ultimately tragic friendship with the charismatic Highland chieftain Fergus.

### [Flora MacIvor](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/characters/flora_macivor)

_romantic_

Edward is infatuated with the proud and idealistic Flora, but she rejects his love due to her devotion to the Jacobite cause and her brother.

### [Colonel Talbot](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/characters/colonel_talbot)

_friendship_

Colonel Talbot becomes a loyal and protective friend to Edward, using his influence to save him from execution after the rebellion fails.

### [Baron of Bradwardine](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/characters/baron_of_bradwardine)

_friendship_

The eccentric but honorable Baron treats Edward with paternal affection and loyalty, becoming a steadfast ally.

### [Rose Bradwardine](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/characters/rose_bradwardine)

_romantic_

Edward eventually realizes his deep and genuine love for the gentle, devoted Rose, whom he marries at the novel's end.

### [Sir Everard Waverley](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/characters/sir_everard_waverley)

_family_

Sir Everard is Edward's doting, aristocratic uncle who raises him as his heir and remains deeply concerned for his welfare.

### [Major Melville](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/characters/major_melville)

_rivalry_

Major Melville, a Hanoverian magistrate, arrests and interrogates Edward as a suspected Jacobite traitor.

### [Evan Dhu Maccombich](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/characters/evan_dhu_maccombich)

_friendship_

Evan Dhu is Fergus's loyal lieutenant who befriends Edward and acts as a guide and protector in the Highlands.

### [Callum Beg](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/characters/callum_beg)

_professional_

Callum Beg is Fergus's young, devoted servant who attends to Edward during his stay at Glennaquoich.

### [Bailie Macwheeble](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/characters/bailie_macwheeble)

_professional_

Bailie Macwheeble is the Baron's comically obsequious lawyer who handles Edward's legal and financial affairs.

### [Donald Bean Lean](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/characters/donald_bean_lean)

_rivalry_

Donald Bean Lean is a cunning Highland outlaw who initially robs Edward and later manipulates events to implicate him in treason.

### [Fergus MacIvor](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/characters/fergus_macivor)

_friendship_

Edward is drawn into the Jacobite cause through his close but ultimately tragic friendship with the charismatic Highland chieftain Fergus.

## In the story

### [Editor's Introduction to Waverley](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/editor-s-introduction-to-waverley)

Described as a 'sneaking piece of imbecility' by Scott; his romantic readings are autobiographical.

### [Waverley](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/waverley)

Introduced as the protagonist, a romantic and impressionable young man whose education and upbringing have left him ill-prepared for the realities of the world.

### [Introductory](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-i-introductory)

Introduced as the hero of the tale, bearing an uncontaminated name.

### [Waverley-Honour—A Retrospect](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-ii-waverley-honour-a-retrospect)

The hero of the tale, introduced as a young officer leaving Waverley-Honour; his childhood encounter with his uncle's carriage initiates reconciliation between his father and uncle.

### [III: Education](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-iii-education)

The hero whose desultory education and romantic reading habits are detailed; he reads for amusement rather than discipline.

### [Castle-Building](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-iv-castle-building)

Now sixteen, he is described as having a fastidious taste from idle reading, disliking society, and preferring solitude to indulge his imagination.

### [Choice of a Profession](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-v-choice-of-a-profession)

Receives news of his commission as captain in Gardiner's dragoons; reacts with animated surprise and begins composing romantic poetry.

### [VI: The Adieus of Waverley](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-vi-the-adieus-of-waverley)

The young hero prepares to leave Waverley-Honour for military service in Scotland, receiving farewells and advice from his uncle and tutor.

### [VII: A Horse-Quarter in Scotland](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-vii-a-horse-quarter-in-scotland)

Departs from the Hall, travels to his regiment in Dundee, struggles with military duties, and decides to visit the Baron of Bradwardine.

### [A Scottish Manor-House](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-viii-a-scottish-manor-house)

Captain Waverley enters Tully-Veolan, observes the village and manor, and reflects on the scene.

### [IX: More of the Manor-House and Its Environs](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-ix-more-of-the-manor-house-and-its-environs)

Explores the manor-house and garden, meets Davie Gellatley and the butler.

### [Rose Bradwardine and Her Father](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-x-rose-bradwardine-and-her-father)

Arrives at Tully-Veolan and is warmly greeted by the Baron; meets Rose Bradwardine and other guests.

### [The Banquet](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xi-the-banquet)

Guest at the banquet, reluctantly drinks from the Blessed Bear, and attempts to intervene in the sword fight.

### [Repentance and a Reconciliation](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xii-repentance-and-a-reconciliation)

Wakes with a hangover and a sense of personal insult; resolves to challenge Balmawhapple but accepts the apology; agrees to extend his visit.

### [A More Rational Day Than the Last](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xiii-a-more-rational-day-than-the-last)

Engages in hunting and conversation with the Baron; visits Rose's apartment; shows interest in local legends and poetry.

### [XIV: A Discovery—Waverley Becomes Domesticated at Tully-Veolan](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xiv-a-discovery-waverley-becomes-domesticated-at-tully-veolan)

Discovers the duel fought on his behalf; feels shame and mortification; grows closer to Rose through shared literary pursuits, though his romantic imagination remains unengaged.

### [XV: A Creagh, and Its Consequences](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xv-a-creagh-and-its-consequences)

Observes the commotion, learns about Highland raiding and blackmail, and is drawn into the local conflict.

### [An Unexpected Ally Appears](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xvi-an-unexpected-ally-appears)

Expresses curiosity about the Highlands, accepts Evan Dhu's invitation to journey into the mountains, and experiences the romantic and fatiguing nature of the trek.

### [XVII: The Hold of a Highland Robber](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xvii-the-hold-of-a-highland-robber)

Arrives at the robber's cave by boat, is hosted by Donald Bean Lean, and feels uneasy at the bandit's mysterious hints.

### [Waverley Proceeds on His Journey](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xviii-waverley-proceeds-on-his-journey)

Explores the cavern and its surroundings, then travels by boat and on foot to meet Fergus MacIvor.

### [The Chief and His Mansion](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xix-the-chief-and-his-mansion)

The guest at Glennaquoich, impressed by the clan's martial display and Fergus's authority.

### [XX: A Highland Feast](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xx-a-highland-feast)

Guest of honor at the feast, observes the clan's customs and bardic performance.

### [XXI: The Chieftain’s Sister](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xxi-the-chieftain-s-sister)

Captain Waverley, introduced to Flora at the tea-table.

### [Highland Minstrelsy](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xxii-highland-minstrelsy)

Listens with romantic delight to Flora's recitation, feeling a complex mix of emotions and admiration.

### [Waverley Continued at Glennaquoich](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xxiii-waverley-continued-at-glennaquoich)

Dances with Flora, writes to the Baron, loses his seal, and retires with agitated feelings.

### [A Stag-Hunt and Its Consequences](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xxiv-a-stag-hunt-and-its-consequences)

Injured during the stag-hunt, saved by Fergus; recovering at a host's house; increasingly enamored with Flora.

### [News from England](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xxv-news-from-england)

Receives news of his father's disgrace and his own supersession; writes a cold resignation and seeks Fergus's advice on revenge.

### [An Eclaircissement](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xxvi-an-eclaircissement)

Declares his love to Flora after removing his Hanoverian cockade; is rebuffed but left with a glimmer of hope.

### [XXVII: Upon the Same Subject](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xxvii-upon-the-same-subject)

Waverley is torn between his love for Flora, his loyalty to the government, and the dangerous prospect of joining the Jacobite rebellion.

### [A Letter from Tully-Veolan](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xxviii-a-letter-from-tully-veolan)

Receives Rose's letter, resolves to leave for Edinburgh to clear his reputation, and grapples with his political loyalties.

### [Waverley's Reception in the Lowlands After His Highland Tour](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-i-xxix-waverley-s-reception-in-the-lowlands-after-his-highland-tour)

Travels from the Highlands to the Lowlands, reflecting on his love for Flora and idealizing her character.

### [Shows That the Loss of a Horse's Shoe May Be a Serious Inconvenience](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-i-shows-that-the-loss-of-a-horse-s-show-may-be-a-serious-inconvenience)

Travels with Ebenezer Cruickshanks; fires his pistol in self-defense at John Mucklewrath; is disarmed and detained by the mob.

### [An Examination](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-ii-an-examination)

The accused, questioned by Major Melville; he denies all charges of mutiny and treason.

### [A Conference and the Consequence](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-iii-a-conference-and-the-consequence)

The young English officer under suspicion; discussed at length by Melville and Morton, who review the evidence against him.

### [A Confidant](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-iv-a-confidant)

Wakes in despair, regrets not joining the Jacobites, and confides in Mr. Morton.

### [Things Mend a Little](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-v-things-mend-a-little)

Accepts Major Melville's dinner invitation after persuasion from Mr. Morton; displays natural conversational talents and resilience despite his predicament.

### [A Volunteer Sixty Years Since](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-vi-a-volunteer-sixty-years-since)

Handed over as a state prisoner to Gilfillan's escort, departing Cairnvreckan under guard.

### [VII: An Incident](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-vii-an-incident)

Prisoner under Gilfillan's guard, listens to theological harangue, is rescued by Highlanders after his horse is shot.

### [Waverley Is Still in Distress](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-viii-waverley-is-still-in-distress)

Injured from his fall, he is transported to a hovel, confined, and tended during a fever; he glimpses a mysterious female figure and receives a secret packet from Alice.

### [IX: A Nocturnal Adventure](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-ix-a-nocturnal-adventure)

Guided by Highlanders through a nocturnal escape, he is brought to Castle Doune and greeted by the Jacobite governor.

### [X: The Journey Is Continued](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-x-the-journey-is-continued)

The protagonist, traveling as a prisoner under escort, observes his surroundings and attempts to gather information.

### [An Old and a New Acquaintance](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xi-an-old-and-a-new-acquaintance)

Presented to Prince Charles Edward and pledges his allegiance to the Jacobite cause.

### [XII: The Mystery Begins to Be Cleared Up](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xii-the-mystery-begins-to-be-cleared-up)

Receives a warm welcome from Prince Charles, is fitted for Highland dress by Fergus, and learns the truth about his captivity.

### [A Soldier's Dinner](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xiii-a-soldier-s-dinner)

Assumes Highland dress and is pleased with his appearance; offers to share his subsidy with the Baron.

### [The Ball](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xiv-the-ball)

Struggles with heartbreak after Flora's rejection, but recovers composure and shines at the ball.

### [XV: The March](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xv-the-march)

Wakes from a dream of Glennaquoich, dresses in Highland garb with Callum's help, and joins the march on foot.

### [An Incident Gives Rise to Unavailing Reflections](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xvi-an-incident-gives-rise-to-unavailing-reflections)

Filled with remorse after finding his former sergeant dying; reflects on his own indolence and indecision.

### [XVII: The Eve of Battle](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xvii-the-eve-of-battle)

Observes the armies forming for battle, feels conflicted about his allegiance, and nearly witnesses the assassination of Colonel Gardiner.

### [The Conflict](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xviii-the-conflict)

Witnesses the death of Colonel Gardiner and intervenes to save an English officer during the battle.

### [XIX: An Unexpected Embarrassment](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xix-an-unexpected-embarassment)

Present as a silent observer during the Baron's feudal debate, following Fergus's signal to feign understanding.

### [XX: The English Prisoner](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xx-the-english-prisoner)

Saves Colonel Talbot's life and is confronted by him about the consequences of joining the rebellion.

### [Rather Unimportant](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxi-rather-unimportant)

Reproached by Fergus for his gloom; entrusted with Colonel Talbot by the Chevalier; reflects on the Baron's homage ceremony.

### [XXII: Intrigues of Love and Politics](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxii-intrigues-of-love-and-politics)

Discovers the intrigues behind his troop's mutiny and receives advice from Colonel Talbot.

### [Intrigues of Society and Love](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxiii-intrigues-of-society-and-love)

Seen as domestic and uninterested in military disputes; admired by Rose; Flora believes he is better suited to a quiet domestic life than high enterprise.

### [Fergus a Suitor](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxiv-fergus-a-suitor)

Observes the discontent at the Chevalier's court and listens to Fergus's account of his failed suit and political setback.

### [XXV: “To One Thing Constant Never”](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxv-to-one-thing-constant-never)

Paces his room, self-criticizing his caprice; compares Rose and Flora; reads Romeo and Juliet; resolves to give up Flora.

### [A Brave Man in Sorrow](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxvi-a-brave-man-in-sorrow)

Waverley is troubled by the political situation and his own involvement in the rebellion. He discovers Colonel Talbot's grief and offers to release him from his parole, feeling responsible for the Colonel's domestic tragedy.

### [Exertion](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxvii-exertion)

Obtains Colonel Talbot's release from the Chevalier and arranges his passage to England.

### [XXVIII: The March](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxviii-the-march)

Endures the march, becomes acquainted with Highland language, and quarrels with Fergus over Flora's rejection, eventually transferring to the Baron's cavalry.

### [The Confusion of King Agramant’s Camp](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxix-the-confusion-of-king-agramant-s-camp)

Rides apart to sketch a hall, is warned by Evan Dhu, then fired upon by Callum Beg; confronts Fergus and later submits to the Prince's arbitration.

### [A Skirmish](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxx-a-skirmish)

Reconciles with Fergus; refuses to desert the army; becomes separated in the skirmish and narrowly escapes capture.

### [Chapter of Accidents](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxi-chapter-of-accidents)

Separated from the Highland army, he is mistaken for a local man and sheltered by the Jopson family, then travels in disguise to Farmer Williams's house.

### [A Journey to London](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxii-a-journey-to-london)

Stays with the Williams family, learns of his father's death and uncle's danger, travels to London under the alias 'Butler' to avoid capture.

### [What’s to Be Done Next?](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxiii-what-s-to-be-done-next)

Discusses his future plans with Colonel Talbot, confesses his attachment to Rose Bradwardine, and decides to return to Scotland.

### [Desolation](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxiv-desolation)

Travels to Scotland after Culloden, learns of the defeat and the fates of his friends, and proceeds to Tully-Veolan.

### [XXXV: Comparing of Notes](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxv-comparing-of-notes)

Listens to the Baron's tale, hopes for Colonel Talbot's intercession, and considers accompanying the Baron to France.

### [XXXVI: More Explanation](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxvi-more-explanation)

Accompanies the Baron, learns of Rose's role in his rescue, and resolves to marry her.

### [Chapter XXXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxvii)

Visits Macwheeble under the alias Mr. Stanley, communicates his proscription and future expectations, and receives a protection from Colonel Talbot.

### [XXXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxviii)

Brings news of the Baron's pardon, proposes to Rose, and plans to visit Colonel Talbot and Fergus MacIvor.

### [Chapter XXXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxix)

Arrives at Carlisle, witnesses the trial, attempts to visit Fergus, and visits Flora MacIvor.

### [Chapter XL](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xl)

Visits Fergus in prison, learns of the Prince's escape, promises to protect the MacIvors, and witnesses the final procession before leaving in grief.

### [Dulce Domum](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xli-dulce-domum)

Returns to Waverley-Honour, prepares for marriage, and marries Rose Bradwardine.

### [XLII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/part-ii-xlii)

Arranges the repurchase of the Bradwardine estate for Rose and her family.

### [Endnotes](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/chapters/endnotes)

Mentioned indirectly in the context of the 'Bodach Glas' apparition, which appears in the novel.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/characters/edward_waverley
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se
- All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/waverley_se/characters