Chapter IX: Canto IV: I. Verse forms

1. The Ballad.
a. Stanza and meter.
b. Subject.

II. Plot structure.

1. The climax; the height of Ellen's misfortunes.
2. Hints of a fortunate outcome for Ellen.
3. Introduction of means for unraveling the plot.
a. The gift of the ring.
4. Hints of an unfortunate outcome for Roderick.
5. Use of the Taghairm in the story.
6. Part played by Blanche of Devon.

III. Character study.

1. Roderick as "father of the clan."
2. Justification of characterization of Fitz-James in Canto I by
events of Canto IV.

_Other Topics._

V. The hospitality of the Highlanders.