The aim of the teacher is to lead the pupils to appreciate the
construction of the story, the fine character sketches, and the
descriptions of natural scenery, as well as to give them an impression
of Highland life. The pupils will take delight in the rapid movement of
the verse and in the deeds of valour.

Some passages should be dwelt upon at greater length by the teacher, and
others more lightly touched upon, so that the connections of the various
parts will be understood. A close and tedious consideration of all the
lines would not show a good critical taste, as some passages are very
fine, while others have only ordinary merit.

The teacher should disclose the identity of Fitz-James as James V of
Scotland and should explain the cause of the exile of the Douglas
Family. He should also sketch the life of rebellion and consequent
outlawry led by some of the Highland clans before they were reduced to
submission.

CANTO I

The teacher should study with the pupils the
Invocation of the three opening stanzas and ask
them to read the first canto. He should next
discuss it briefly, as suggested in the
following outline:

What are the main divisions of the first canto?

1. The chase
2. Description of the Trossachs
3. Description of Ellen Douglas
4. Description of Fitz-James.

Why is the story of the chase introduced? It
brings Fitz-James alone into the enemy's
country, where he meets Ellen Douglas, and
prepares the way for the adventures that
follow.

What is the story of the chase? The hundred
huntsmen and the horses and the dogs become
wearied in the long pursuit after the stag. One
huntsman alone is left to enter the deep ravine
where the stag escapes.

This description of the Trossachs made the spot
famous, and ever since it has been a favourite
resort of tourists.

CANTO II

The Island

What are the divisions of this canto?

1. The departure of the huntsmen
2. Description of the minstrel
3. The story of Roderick's love
4. Return of the Clan-Alpine
5. Malcolm Graeme
6. The quarrel.

What is the value of this canto? It explains
many facts that we did not understand. Among
others, it shows us the relation of the
Doug