Book Description
The Provost is an ironic look at the career of a small town merchant and politician. Set in Irvine, Scotland, it follows the life of James Pawkie, the Provost of the title. Starting as a humble apprentice, he progresses to owning his own shop and eventually acquiring a large portion of Irvine. Simultaneously, he begins involvement in local politics with a seat on the town council. Eventually, he is elevated to the supreme position of local power, the Provost, where he uses his position and wealth to manipulate the residents of Irvine to do his bidding. Using a comedic touch, Galt delves into the issues of use and misuse of power. The Provost, one of Galt’s the Tales of the West novels, is heralded as his one true masterpiece.

About the Author
John Galt (1779 – 1839) was born at Irvine, Ayrshire, Scotland. Galt is considered an early master of the realistic novel. His Tales of the West novels, set in Galt’s native Ayrshire, influenced the writing of many of his contemporaries. Widely popular in his lifetime his works have now fallen into obscurity. Only recently, with the rebirth of Scottish nationalism, has Galt’s work received serious attention.

SYNOPSIS