Edward Waverley fits the archetype of a passive hero, whose actions have little impact upon the plot. What does Edward’s passivity say about his character? Does it relate to the major themes of the novel?

Waverley is a historical novel that deals with factual events of the 18th century. Research the historical context. How does Scott blend fact and fiction in the novel? How does his portrayal of the Jacobite uprising of 1745 compare to factual historical accounts?

Compare and contrast Rose and Flora. What does Edward’s initial choice of a love interest and final choice of a wife reveal about the novel? Do traditional notions of femininity and masculinity reveal anything about Flora, Rose, or Edward?