1. Exploration of Love and Loss: The ballad's primary purpose is to explore the themes of love, loss, and regret. It depicts a tragic story of unrequited love and its devastating consequences.
2. Warning about Pride and Stubbornness: The ballad can be seen as a warning about the dangers of pride and stubbornness. Barbara's refusal to acknowledge her love for the dying John Graeme leads to his death and her own deep sorrow.
3. Exploration of Gender Roles: The ballad reflects the societal expectations of women and men in the 17th and 18th centuries. Barbara, as a young woman, is expected to be demure and compliant, while John Graeme is expected to be bold and courageous.
4. Social Commentary: Some scholars argue that the ballad also serves as a social commentary on the class differences of the time. John Graeme, a nobleman, is unable to win the heart of Barbara, who might have been from a lower social standing.
5. Artistic Expression: Regardless of its deeper meanings, "Bonny Barbara Allan" is also a beautiful and compelling piece of art. The ballad's simple yet powerful language and haunting melody resonate with audiences to this day.
In summary: The author's purpose in "Bonny Barbara Allan" is to tell a timeless story about the complexities of human emotions, the dangers of pride and stubbornness, and the impact of societal expectations. The ballad also serves as a powerful example of the enduring power of art to convey universal truths.