David Balfour

Name: David Balfour
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson

In August 1751, David Balfour, a young man recently come into an inheritance, embarks on a journey to Edinburgh to seek out his kinsman, Mr. Balfour of Pilrig. His arrival in the bustling city is marked by a mix of excitement and trepidation, as he navigates the complexities of his newfound status while being pursued by the law due to his association with a condemned traitor, Alan Breck Stewart. David's quest leads him to various encounters, including a chance meeting with Catriona Drummond, the daughter of a man imprisoned for his Jacobite affiliations. As David attempts to establish his identity and secure his future, he becomes embroiled in the political tensions of the time, particularly surrounding the Appin murder, for which Alan is wrongfully accused. David's moral compass is tested as he grapples with the implications of his testimony, which could save Alan but also put him in danger. He faces threats from Symon Fraser, a cunning adversary, and the looming specter of the law, which seeks to entrap him. Throughout his journey, David's character is shaped by his relationships with others, particularly Catriona, whose loyalty and bravery inspire him. As he navigates the treacherous waters of loyalty, betrayal, and justice, David must confront his own fears and the harsh realities of a world divided by political strife. His resolve to stand by his principles leads him to a fateful decision: to testify in defense of Alan, risking his own safety in the process. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of Scotland's tumultuous political landscape, exploring themes of honor, loyalty, and the quest for justice. David's journey is not just a physical one but also a moral and emotional odyssey, as he learns the true cost of standing up for what is right in a world fraught with danger and deception. Ultimately, his choices will determine not only his fate but also the lives of those he cares about, as he seeks to navigate the complexities of loyalty and justice in a divided land.

By Robert Louis Stevenson · First published 1893 · Genre: Adventure, Historical Fiction, Coming-of-Age · 30 chapters · 122,150 words

First lines

The 25th day of August, 1751, about two in the afternoon, I, David Balfour, came forth of the British Linen Company, a porter attending me with a bag of money, and some of the chief of these merchants bowing me from their doors. Two days before, and even so late as yestermorning, I was like a beggarman by the wayside, clad in rags, brought down to my last shillings, my companion a condemned traitor, a price set on my own head for a crime with the news of which the country rang. To-day I was served heir to my position in life, a landed laird, a bank porter by me carrying my gold, recommendations in my pocket, and (in the words of the saying) the ball directly at my foot.

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David Balfour is listed on Textopian as a novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, dated 1893 CE.

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Work type: Novel
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson
Date: 1893 CE
Language: English
Genres: Adventure, Historical Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Romance, Drama
Length: 122,150 words
Structure: 30 chapters, 1,914 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Adventure — The plot follows David Balfour's journey filled with perilous encounters and exploration.
Historical Fiction — The narrative is set in 18th-century Scotland, incorporating historical events and figures.
Coming-of-Age — The story centers on David's growth and self-discovery as he navigates challenges.
Romance — Elements of romantic interest are woven into the character relationships.