"The Virginian" is a classic Western novel written by Owen Wister, first published in 1902. It is considered one of the earliest and most influential works of Western literature, helping to shape the popular image of the American cowboy and the Wild West.

The novel is set in the late 19th century in the American West, primarily in Wyoming. It tells the story of the title character, known simply as "the Virginian." He is a strong, skilled, and principled cowboy who works on the Sunk Creek Ranch.

The Virginian is a symbol of the archetypal cowboy, often seen as brave, honest, and dedicated to his own code of ethics. The plot of the novel revolves around the Virginian's experiences, relationships, and challenges in the West. One of the central elements is his budding romance with a schoolteacher named Molly Stark Wood.

Their love story and the conflicts they face are woven into the broader narrative, which includes themes of justice, honor, and the clash between law and order in a rugged and untamed frontier. Owen Wister's "The Virginian" is not just a romance or a tale of the Old West but also a character study and an exploration of the moral dilemmas faced by the people of that era.

The novel played a significant role in shaping the popular perception of the American West and its rugged, independent, and noble characters. It has been adapted into various forms, including films, television series, and stage productions, and continues to be celebrated as a classic of Western literature.