Waverley published anonymously in Edinburgh

Background. Scott was already famous as a poet when he chose to publish Waverley anonymously in 1814 as his first venture into prose fiction. Evidence about the composition of the first volume is inconclusive, but it was probably begun in 1808, laid aside, continued in 1810, and eventually taken up and completed in the later part of 1813. Scott thereafter had a new career as a novelist, though he did not abandon poetry.

Publication Details. The first edition of Waverley, consisting of three volumes and 1,000 copies, was published in Edinburgh on 7 July 1814 by Archibald Constable and Co. It was also published in London later in the month by Longman, Hurst, Rees, Orme, and Brown. The first edition was followed by two further editions comprising 4,000 copies in the same year.

Reception and Legacy. Scott's new career as a novelist in 1814 did not mean he abandoned poetry. In 1815, Scott was given the honour of dining with George, Prince Regent, who wanted to meet "the author of Waverley."