A Scottish Historical Fiction Classic by Sir Walter Scott
The Black Dwarf by Scottish author Sir Walter Scott is a book of literary fiction first published in 1816 in Scotland. The Black Dwarf is considered to be one of Scott’s best works. It is a classic of Scottish historical fiction, and it explores themes of revenge class, poverty, and social injustice, that are still relevant today.

Book Excerpt
“revenge is the hungry wolf, which asks only to tear flesh and lap blood. Think you the lamb’s plea of innocence would be listened to by him?”
“Man!” said Isabella, rising, and expressing herself with much dignity, “I fear not the horrible ideas with which you would impress me. I cast them from me with disdain. Be you mortal or fiend, you would not offer injury to one who sought you as a suppliant in her utmost need. You would not— you durst not.”

Synopsis
The Black Dwarf is a Scottish historical novel by Sir Walter Scott set in 1708, in the aftermath of the Union of Scotland and England. The novel follows the story of a mysterious dwarf named Elshender the Recluse, known as the Black Dwarf due to his physical appearance. His extraordinary strength, knowledge of medicine, and ready wealth lead the local people to regard him as a supernatural being in league with the Devil. He lives in a remote cottage in the Scottish Borders, harboring deep resentment and seeking vengeance against those he believes have wronged him. He is actually a former Jacobite named Sir Edward Mauley who has been dispossessed of his land and title. The story unfolds as characters’ secrets are revealed, old wounds resurface, and the consequences of past actions come to light. As the novel progresses, Mauley’s obsession with vengeance and the injustices of the past drive the narrative toward a dramatic and tragic climax.