Barclay of Ury
The poem tells the story of a Scottish nobleman who returns to his ancestral home after years abroad and finds it in disrepair. He reflects on the decline of his family's fortunes and the changing times, but ultimately decides to restore the estate to its former glory. The poem explores themes of heritage, duty, and the passing of time.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1838 · Genre: Poetry, Historical Fiction, Religious Literature · 1,025 words
First lines
Among the earliest converts to the doctrines of Friends in Scotland was Barclay of Ury, an old and distinguished soldier, who had fought under Gustavus Adolphus, in Germany. As a Quaker, he became the object of persecution and abuse at the hands of the magistrates and the populace. None bore the indignities of the mob with greater patience and nobleness of soul than this once proud gentleman and soldier. One of his friends, on an occasion of uncommon rudeness, lamented that he should be treated so harshly in his old age who had been so honored before. "I find more satisfaction," said Barclay, "as well as honor, in being thus insulted for my religious principles, than when, a few years ago, it was usual for the magistrates, as I passed the city of Aberdeen, to meet me on the road and conduct me to public entertainment in their hall, and thenescort me out again, to gain my favor. "
What this Textopian page supports
Barclay of Ury is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1838 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: John Greenleaf Whittier
- Date: 1838 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Historical Fiction, Religious Literature, Biography, Social Commentary
- Length: 1,025 words
- Structure: 1 section, 22 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Historical Fiction — It depicts historical events and figures, focusing on the life of a Quaker in a specific historical context.
- Religious Literature — The themes revolve around faith, persecution for religious beliefs, and the moral implications of such trials.
- Biography — It presents a biographical account of a historical figure's life and experiences.
Tags
Scottish novel · Historical fiction · Poetic prose · Romance · Family saga · Coming of age · Social class · Class struggle · Love story · Marriage plot · Family dynamics · Morality tale