Marmion: A Tale of Flodden Field is a romance by Sir Walter Scott. Written in verse, it presents Lord Marmion, who lusts for the wealthy Clara de Clare so much that even breaking the law seems fair to him.

Sir Walter Scott's love of the country induced him, after his marriage in 1797, to settle in a cottage at the pretty village of Lasswade, near Edinburgh. Four years after leaving this district he took Mr. Morritt of Rokeby to see the little dwelling, telling him that, though not worth looking at, 'it was our first house when newly married, and many a contrivance it had to make it comfortable.' He then enumerated various devices, by which he had secured for Mrs. Scott and himself what seemed to both, at the time, additional convenience and elegance in and about their home. His reminiscences culminated in an account of an arch over the gate-way, which he had constructed by fastening together the tops of two convenient willows and placing above them 'a cross made of two sticks.' This is very beautiful and characteristic; and there is much freshness and charm in the further picture of the young cottagers rejoicing over the success of the arrangements. 'To be sure, ' Scott concluded, 'it is not much of a lion to show a stranger; but I wanted to see it again myself, for I assure you after I constructed it, Mamma (Mrs. Scott) and I both of us thought it so fine, we turned out to see it by moonlight, and walked backwards from it to the cottage-door in admiration of our own magnificence and its picturesque effect.' It was his way to invest his circumstances with an interest over and above what intrinsically belonged to them, and to prompt his friends to a share in his delight. When, in 1804, Scott was appointed Sheriff of Selkirkshire, a condition attaching to his post was that he should reside during part of the year within the bounds of his sheriffdom. He then removed from Lasswade, and settled at Ashestiel on the Tweed, seven miles from Selkirk. This is his own account of the new home: --

Marmion: A Tale of Flodden Field in Six Cantos by Walter Scott is an epic historical poem set in 16th-century Scotland during the tumultuous times of the Battle of Flodden. This gripping narrative explores themes of honor, love, betrayal, and the devastating consequences of war, capturing the reader's imagination with its vivid descriptions and captivating storytelling. Key Aspects of The Book “Marmion: A Tale of Flodden Field: Historical Setting: Set against the backdrop of the Battle of Flodden in 1513, the poem transports readers to a pivotal moment in Scottish history. Walter Scott meticulously researches the historical events and characters of the time, offering a richly detailed and authentic portrayal of the era. Epic Narrative: Marmion follows the exploits of the eponymous character, a brave Scottish knight, as he navigates treacherous political intrigues, romantic entanglements, and the horrors of war. The poem unfolds through six cantos, each filled with vivid descriptions, stirring battle scenes, and emotional depth. Themes of Honor and Betrayal: Throughout the poem, Scott delves into the complexities of honor, exploring how it can be both upheld and compromised in the face of personal ambition, political machinations, and the fog of war. The characters grapple with loyalty, deceit, and the consequences of their choices, highlighting the moral dilemmas that arise in times of conflict. Walter Scott: Walter Scott, born in 1771, was a Scottish historical novelist, poet, and playwright. Often referred to as the Father of the Historical Novel, Scott's works, including Ivanhoe and Waverley, transported readers to different eras, weaving intricate tales of adventure, romance, and heroism against vivid historical backdrops. Scott's novels played a significant role in popularizing historical fiction, blending meticulously researched historical events with captivating storytelling. His impact on the literary landscape endures, with his works remaining beloved classics that transport readers to bygone times.

Sir Walter Scott (1771 - 1832) was a popular Scottish historical novelist and poet. Scott was the first English language author to have international popularity during his lifetime. His novels remain popular today. His most famous works include Ivanhoe, Rob Roy, The Lady of The Lake, Waverely, The Heart of Midlothian and The Bride of Lammermoor. Marmion is an epic poem about the Battle of Flodden in 1513. Lord Marmion, a favorite of Henry VIII of England, lusts for Clara de Clare, a rich woman. Marmion and his mistress Constance De Beverley forge a letter implicating Clara's fianc in a plot of treason. One of the most famous quotations from the poem is "Oh, what a tangled web we weave When first we practice to deceive!"