Kinmont Willie by John Lang (1823)
The story revolves around a young Scottish Highlander who seeks revenge against the man responsible for his family's death. He infiltrates the household of his enemy by disguising himself as a servant and gains the trust of his target, eventually exacting his revenge in a dramatic confrontation.
By John Lang · First published 1823 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Adventure, Ballad · 4,439 words
First lines
A venerable and highly respected Scottish professor of literature was once asked what was his ruling passion -- his heart's desire? If the secrets of his soul could be laid bare, what, above all, would be found to be his predominant wish? The question was an indiscreet one, but he was tolerant. He tightly compressed his gentle mouth, and firmly readjusted his gold-rimmed glasses.
"I _wish_" said he, "to be a corsair."
What this Textopian page supports
Kinmont Willie is listed on Textopian as a short story by John Lang, dated 1823 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: John Lang
- Date: 1823 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Historical Fiction, Adventure, Ballad, Drama, Folklore
- Length: 4,439 words
- Structure: 1 section, 40 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Kinmont Willie by John Lang
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Kinmont Willie?
- How does this short story by John Lang fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Historical Fiction first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Historical Fiction — The narrative is set in a specific historical context, focusing on the life and exploits of a notorious Scottish reiver.
- Adventure — The plot involves daring escapades, including a rescue mission and border raids, characteristic of adventure storytelling.
- Ballad — The work incorporates elements of traditional ballads, reflecting oral storytelling traditions and poetic forms.
- Drama — The intense conflicts and character interactions create a dramatic narrative filled with tension and emotional stakes.
Tags
Historical Fiction · Scottish Literature · Adventure Novel · Romance · Highland Folklore · 18th Century Setting · Cattle Raiding · Feudal Scotland · Tartan Tales · Folk Hero · Legendary Figure · Rival Clans