Yet what can they see in the longest kingly line in Europe, save that it runs back to a successful soldier?

Yet what can they see in the longest kingly line in Europe, save that it runs back to a successful soldier?

In the world of Walter Scott's historical novels, the idea of a successful soldier as the foundation of a kingly line is a recurring theme. Scott's works often explore the complexities of power, lineage, and the impact of war on society. In his novels, characters are frequently defined by their military prowess and their ability to lead armies to victory. This emphasis on military success as a key factor in determining a ruler's legitimacy is reflected in the quote, "Yet what can they see in the longest kingly line in Europe, save that it runs back to a successful soldier?"

Scott's novels are filled with characters who come from long lines of warriors and conquerors. These characters often struggle to live up to the expectations set by their ancestors, and must navigate the challenges of ruling a kingdom in a time of war and political upheaval. The idea that a kingly line is only as strong as its most successful soldier speaks to the importance of military might in Scott's fictional worlds.

One of Scott's most famous works, "Ivanhoe," features a protagonist who is the son of a noble knight and a descendant of a long line of warriors. The character of Ivanhoe must prove himself on the battlefield in order to win the respect of his peers and secure his place in the kingly line. Throughout the novel, Scott explores the idea of honor, duty, and the legacy of war in shaping the destinies of his characters.