The House with the Green Shutters by George Douglas Brown (Vintage 1950 Hardcover)

“The House with the Green Shutters” is a novel by Scottish author George Douglas Brown, first published in 1901. The novel is set in the fictional Scottish town of Barbie, and tells the story of a young merchant named John Gourlay.

John is a ruthless and ambitious man who is determined to succeed in the mercantile business and rise above his humble origins. He is married to a timid and obedient woman named Kirsty, and they have two children together. John’s business dealings and personal relationships are marked by greed, cruelty, and manipulation, and he becomes increasingly isolated and paranoid as his fortunes rise and fall.

The novel is a scathing critique of the Scottish middle class and their values, particularly their obsession with social status and material wealth. It also explores themes of power, corruption, and the destructive effects of ambition on both individuals and society as a whole.

“The House with the Green Shutters” was controversial at the time of its publication, as it presented a starkly negative portrayal of Scottish society and was seen by some as an attack on the Scottish character. However, it is now regarded as a seminal work of Scottish literature and a classic of early 20th-century British fiction. The novel’s vivid characters, powerful themes, and evocative portrayal of Scottish life continue to resonate with readers today.