Subject
Scotland -- History -- To 1603 Books
Best books
W. F. (William Forbes) Skene
Celtic Scotland : $b A history of ancient Alban. Volume 2 (of 3), Church and culture
"Celtic Scotland: A History of Ancient Alban. Volume 2 (of 3), Church and Culture" by William F. Skene is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work delves into the intricate history of the early Celtic Church in Scotland, exploring its influence on the culture of the region and the challenges faced in understanding its origins. Skene seeks to present a narrative based on authentic sources, free from the ecclesiastical biases that have historically clouded the subject. The opening of the book sets the stage by outlining the context in which early Celtic churches evolved, focusing on the periods of isolation after the Roman withdrawal from Britain and the subsequent re-establishment of ties with the European mainland. Skene discusses the activities of early church figures such as Saint Ninian and offers insights into the establishment of the Christian faith among the Picts and Scots. He emphasizes the complexities surrounding the early ecclesiastical history of Scotland, including the controversies arising from varying practices concerning the celebration of Easter. The early chapters promise a detailed exploration of these foundational figures and the evolution of the Celtic Church’s structure and influence on Scottish society.
W. F. (William Forbes) Skene
Celtic Scotland : $b A history of ancient Alban. Volume 1 (of 3), History and ethnology
"Celtic Scotland: A History of Ancient Alban" by William F. Skene is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work delves into the early civil history, ethnology, and the complex cultural landscape of ancient Scotland, known as Alban, during the Celtic period. This meticulous exploration aims to sift through historical inaccuracies to present a clearer picture of Scotland's early historical narratives. At the start of the book, the author outlines the challenging task of revisiting early Scottish history by critically evaluating the sources and narratives that have long been accepted. He expresses a desire to discard the elaborate but often inaccurate histories constructed by earlier writers, such as John of Fordun, in favor of a more authentic representation based on trustworthy authorities. The initial chapters introduce key historical events such as the Roman invasions and the political landscape of ancient Britain, establishing the groundwork for a nuanced discussion of the various tribes and their interactions with one another and with invading forces.
Eben William Robertson
Scotland under her early kings, Volume 1 (of 2) : $b a history of the kingdom to the close of the thirteenth century
"Scotland under her early kings, Volume 1 (of 2): A History of the Kingdom to the Close of the Thirteenth Century" by E. William Robertson is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The work aims to fill a significant gap in the history of Scotland, particularly concerning the early periods that have been neglected by previous historians. The book focuses on the formation of the Scottish kingdom, exploring the reigns of its early kings and the complex interactions between various tribes and kingdoms. The opening of the book introduces the author’s intention to detail the early history of Scotland, emphasizing the transition from Roman occupation to the emergence of distinct Scottish identity. It discusses the scant records from Roman times, the societal structure of the Picts, and early conflicts between the Picts and the incoming Angles and Scots. Key figures and events from the early centuries are mentioned, setting the stage for understanding how the amalgamation of these groups led to a more unified Scottish kingdom, paving the way for the detailed histories that will unfold in subsequent chapters.
W. F. (William Forbes) Skene
Celtic Scotland : $b A history of ancient Alban. Volume 3 (of 3), Land and people
"Celtic Scotland: A History of Ancient Alban. Volume 3 (of 3), Land and People" by William F. Skene is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This volume serves as the concluding part of a comprehensive work detailing the Celtic period of Scottish history, focusing specifically on the land and social conditions of its early inhabitants. The topic is likely to interest readers who are keen on exploring the complexities of Scotland’s Celtic heritage, including its land tenures, social structures, and ethnic compositions. The opening of the volume presents the author's preface, where he discusses the publication of the third edition and offers a brief overview of the historical context. Skene sets the stage by detailing the final phases of the consolidation of Scotland into a one feudal monarchy during the reign of Alexander the Third. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the social and political organization of the people living in Scotland during this period, illustrating the diversity of races that composed the population, including Picts, Britons, Scots, and various external influences. Through this detailed examination, readers are invited to appreciate the intricate historical tapestry of ancient Scotland, paving the way for further exploration into individual chapters that delve deeper into Scotland's past.
Sturla Þórðarson
The Norwegian account of Haco's expedition against Scotland, A.D. MCCLXIII.
"The Norwegian Account of Haco's Expedition Against Scotland, A.D. MCCLXIII." by Rev. James Johnstone is a historical account translated from Old Icelandic texts, specifically the Flateyan and Frisian manuscripts. Originally printed in the late 18th century and reissued in the late 19th century, this book offers an in-depth look at King Haco's military campaign to Scotland during the 13th century, a time characterized by the fervent struggles for power in the British Isles. The narrative captures the events leading up to and during King Haco's expedition, detailing his attempts to reclaim the Hebrides, which were contested between Norway and Scotland. The account provides insight into the political dynamics of the time, including King Alexander of Scotland's ambitions and the alliances and negotiations that were attempted but ultimately failed. Describing the fierce battles and challenges faced by the Norwegian forces, the text reflects on themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the harsh realities of medieval warfare, culminating in Haco's tragic death and the subsequent implications for both Norway and Scotland.
Recently surfaced classics