The Antiquary

The Antiquary is a novel by Sir Walter Scott, published in 1816, and is part of his Waverley series. The story unfolds in the fictional coastal town of Fairport, Scotland, and centers around Jonathan Oldbuck, an antiquary and collector of historical artifacts, who embodies both eccentricity and a deep appreciation for the past. The narrative begins with Oldbuck encountering William Lovel, a mysterious young man with a questionable background.

As they form a friendship, Lovel's romantic interest in Isabella Wardour, the daughter of the financially troubled Sir Arthur Wardour, complicates matters. Isabella loves Lovel but is deterred by her father's disdain for Lovel's illegitimacy and uncertain lineage. As the plot progresses, Sir Arthur's financial woes lead him to consider dubious schemes to recover his wealth, including a treasure hunt prompted by the conman Dousterswivel.