Chapter 25

The Prophecy

Give the main themes in this canto.

1. Return of Malise 2. Norman's guard 3. The augury and the prophecy 4. Return of Fitz-James to Ellen Douglas 5. The ring 6. Blanche of Devan 7. Death of Murdoch 8. Fitz-James meets Roderick Dhu.

What are the best stanzas? The ballad of "Alice Brand".

Why is this ballad introduced? It shows the character of Scottish minstrelsy, the belief in the world of fairies, and the lesson of hope that at the darkest moment the hour of happiness may be near. It furnishes another example of Allanbane's prophetic insight.

The introduction: "The rose is fairest when it is budding new." Why is this stanza appropriate? It shows the tenderness of Norman's love, as contrasted with the fierce warfare in which he is engaged.

Why is Blanche of Devan introduced? To furnish an example of Roderick's cruelty, so that Fitz-James should feel justified in punishing him. Blanche of Devan also warns Fitz-James of Murdoch's treachery. This stanza explains the allusions in the lesson in the _Fourth Book_, for example: "a braid of your fair lady's hair", and "There lies red Murdoch stark and stiff".

What characteristics of Roderick are shown in the canto?

1. His care for the defenceless in his clan 2. His cruelty to his enemies 3. His hospitality 4. His superstition.

What was the prophecy?

Who spills the foremost foeman's life That party conquers in the strife.

What is the value of the prophecy in the poem? It furnishes a reason for the eagerness of the clansmen to take the life of the huntsman, as the former would then "conquer in the strife".