The Picts and the Scots by Lloyd Laing

by Jennifer Laing

The Picts have long been known for their mysterious symbol stones, but our understanding of their links with the Scots remains unresolved. This highly readable account presents the latest archeological discoveries & discusses the evidence for the relationship between these two peoples, tracing their development from raids on Roman Britain to the formation of rival Dark Age kingdoms that produced a unique artistic inheritance.

Genres: History, Scotland, Nonfiction, Archaeology

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1993

Reviews

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is neither succinct enough for the casual reader nor in-depth enough for the fellow historian, though it was an enjoyable and insightful read.

[Andra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I learned more about these two cultures and these peoples from this book than from all other books I've read.

[Sarah - All The Book Blog Names Are Taken · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this slim volume to be very informative, given that it was first published in 1993 and there have been new editions since then - something I did not know when I first found it at the library. Prior to, I had no real knowledge of the Picts or Scots, aside from bits and pieces. I did not realize their cultures lasted so long, into the 11th century.

I find the so-called Dark Ages so fascinating; how can any period truly be dark, when it produced the likes of the Book of Kells (which I was lucky enough to have seen when I was in Dublin in 2010! So beautiful. And as an aside, the Trinity College Library, wow. I thought I had died and gone to Heaven. In my review on my blog, I posted a few pictures, check it out here ----> http://allthebookblognamesaretaken.bl...)

I would certainly be interested to see what information might be included in any updated versions of this book and plan to read others on these subjects as well. The only thing I really wanted from this book was more color photographs. It is hard to see some of the mounds and such in a black and white photo, especially if you are unfamiliar with terminology and not quite sure what you are looking at. Otherwise, no major complaints. Recommended read!

[Liz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Decent enough, but doesn't reflect more recent efforts in archaeology.

[Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

needs maps!!!