Names of Waverley

Something that I have found particularly interesting in Waverley is the similarities and differences between Flora and Rose. Despite the fact that both characters have nature inspired names, their personalities could not be more different. Rose fits her namesake, as she is happy, elegant and demure. On the other hand, Flora is arguably more accomplished, patriotic, and melancholic. Rose was spoiled growing up, with her wishes frequently filled by her father, and Flora experienced economic hardships. This difference is especially highlighted because the two were good friends growing up until Flora’s family fell deep into poverty. 

       Clearly polar opposites, Rose and Flora also find themselves in a love triangle with Waverley. This is also an interesting point of comparison because everyone involved seems to have unrequited feelings or no feelings at all. Rose is interested in Waverley whose affections are directed to Flora, but she really could not care less that he is interested. I especially appreciate this aspect of the novel because I think it breaks up the historically based dialogue

      Another interesting (and probably entirely unrelated) aspect of Rose and Flora’s names is their tie to the story of Sleeping Beauty. In the Grimm Brothers version, Sleeping Beauty’sname is Briar Rose, and in the  animated depiction of her character in the Disney edition, she has blonde hair and fair skin, much like Rose in Waverley. Additionally, in the Disney adaptation, the most assertive and headstrong of the three fairies that assist Sleeping Beauty is named Flora. Again, this is probably not of any relation, but I thought it was cool to see the mirroring of names and character traits!