A Doctor of the Old School — Complete

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

9320

Title

A Doctor of the Old School — Complete

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set in the rugged Scottish Highlands, this novel chronicles the life of William MacLure, a selfless country doctor who serves his isolated community for forty years. Blending humor with profound pathos, the story highlights his unwavering dedication to saving lives amidst harsh weather and limited resources, culminating in a moving tribute to his character and legacy.

Summary up to 500 words

Set in the harsh, unforgiving glen of Drumtochty, Ian Maclaren's *A Doctor of the Old School* chronicles the life of William MacLure, a physician who served a scattered community of farmers and shepherds for forty years. MacLure operated from a humble cottage, riding his faithful white mare through snowdrifts, treacherous bogs, and steep mountain paths to act as surgeon, obstetrician, dentist, and general practitioner. The narrative, told through the eyes of his loyal friend Drumsheugh, highlights MacLure's tireless dedication against the elements and the resilient, often defiant 'Drumtochty constitution.' The story features dramatic rescues, such as the amputation of a boy's arm caught in a mill and a desperate battle to save Saunders Baxter from a fatal fever. While a visiting London doctor declared Saunders doomed, MacLure refused to give up, utilizing simple remedies like milk, whisky, and cold water to fight the fever. His victory was celebrated with the 'Highland Fling,' a dance of joy that marked his triumph over death. The novel explores themes of self-sacrifice, Christian charity, and the deep bond between a healer and his people. MacLure's rough exterior and lack of formal specialization never obscured his profound love for his neighbors. The narrative concludes with MacLure's death and funeral, an event attended by the entire community, including a distant lord who traveled through deep snow to pay his respects. The story ends poignantly with the death of MacLure's old mare, Jess, who died of a broken heart after her master's passing. Through vivid dialect and heartfelt storytelling, the book celebrates a man who laid down his life for others, earning the enduring love and reverence of the Drumtochty people.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Fiction
• Physicians