Walter Scott (1771—1832) was a Scottish historical novelist, poet, and playwright. Although he was an advocate and legal administrator by profession, Scott is most famous for his great literary works and activities in the Royal Highland Society. "The Monastery" is a historical novel that takes place during the Scottish Reformation in the middle of the sixteenth century. The wonderful love story between three heroes, Glendinning boys, and Mary Avenel, closely intersects with events in the country that threaten the very existence of the Monastery of Kennaquhair.