The Representation of History and Romance in Robert Louis Stevenson’s Historical Novels

Abstract

Robert Louis Stevenson, best known for his adventure and psychological narratives, also made significant contributions to historical fiction. This article examines Stevenson’s historical novels, particularly Kidnapped (1886), Catriona (1893), and The Master of Ballantrae (1889), to explore how he combines historical accuracy with the imaginative elements of neo-romanticism. The study highlights Stevenson’s skill in merging the realities of Scottish history with universal themes of loyalty, betrayal, and moral conflict. By analyzing narrative strategies, character development, and the interplay between fact and fiction, the paper argues that Stevenson revitalized the historical novel in the late Victorian era. His works not only reflect the socio-political tensions of nineteenth-century Scotland but also anticipate the global readership of modern historical fiction.