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Chapter 24
Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Kidnapped, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Political Conflict and National Identity
Trust and Betrayal
Justice vs. Injustice
Coming of Age
Summary
Analysis
Alan and David arrive in the politically chaotic region of Balquhidder, where no single clan holds dominance and rival factions—like the Maclarens, Stewarts, and outlawed MacGregors—compete for control. By luck, Alan knocks at the door of Duncan Dhu, a Maclaren allied with the Stewarts, who welcomes them gladly. David collapses into bed with illness while Alan remains close, hiding in the hills by day and visiting him at night despite the risk. A doctor is brought, and though David takes nearly a month to recover fully, no local betrays him. The entire region seems aware of who he is, but they say nothing. Even with soldiers nearby and reward posters openly displayed, the people offer no hint to the authorities.
As Alan and David arrive in Balquhidder, the region’s political chaos reflects the broader instability in Scotland during the early 18th century. The Maclarens, Stewarts, and outlawed MacGregors were all factions involved in the turbulent Jacobite uprisings, vying for power in the wake of political upheaval following the 1715 and 1745 rebellions. Alan’s chance encounter with Duncan Dhu, a Maclaren allied with the Stewarts, brings attention to the fragmented allegiances and divided loyalties that defined much of the Highlands.
Themes
During David’s recovery, a surprising visitor arrives: Robin Oig, son of the famous Rob Roy MacGregor. Robin explains that a Balfour once treated his brother during the 1745 uprising, and he offers his service—if David proves to be a close relative. David admits he does not know his family history, so Robin storms off, calling him a nameless nobody. At the door, Robin crosses paths with Alan, and the two exchange sharp words. Tension rises quickly until Duncan Dhu interrupts and proposes a piping contest instead of a duel. The two rivals compete, each boasting about their skill, until Robin plays a tune dear to the Appin Stewarts. Alan, moved by the melody, graciously concedes defeat and calls Robin a great piper.
Rob Roy MacGregor was a legendary figure of the Jacobite cause, a folk hero who became famous for his defiance against both English rule and internal clan politics. Robin Oig’s offer of service, which is conditional on David proving a connection to his family, reflects the importance of lineage in this period—particularly in a time when social status was often tied to one’s heritage and familial connections. Robin’s anger when David admits ignorance of his family history highlights the rigid expectations surrounding clan identity and the role of historical connections in determining one’s place in Scottish society.
Themes
