Chapter 23

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 Douglases to the King and to Roderick Dhu. It tells of the love of Malcolm Graeme for Ellen and of Roderick's hopeless love for her. It shows us Roderick's noble traits of character and the fearful cruelties of which he is capable. He cannot possibly win Ellen's love.