Scottish History and Mythology: An Enthralling Journey Through Scotland's Past and Legendary Myths

by Billy Wellman

Unlock Scotland’s Journey Through History and Myth in One Exciting BookTwo manuscripts in one History of An Enthralling Overview of Important Events and FiguresScottish Enthralling Myths, Folktales, and Legends from Scotland
Do you know Scotland's whole story? In this enthralling history book, you'll explore the rich heritage of a country that has changed the world. Learn about the amazing events and famous people that have made Scotland known for its interesting culture, innovative ideas, and enduring strength.

In the first part of this book, you will learn Ancient Who were the first people to live in Scotland? Explore the mysterious ruins of Skara Brae and the start of Scottish civilization.Clash of Discover the meetings between the ancient Romans and the strong people of Caledonia. What secrets do these early encounters reveal?Formation of a Learn how the Picts and the Gaels came together to create the Kingdom of Alba.Regal Meet the kings and queens, from Kenneth I to Mary, Queen of Scots, who shaped Scottish royalty.Religious How did the Church of Scotland begin, and what is Presbyterianism? Find out about John Knox's influence and the short-lived power of the Kirk.Highland Feuds and See the bloody clan feuds and the brave spirit of the Highlanders.Union with Explore the debated union with England and its lasting effects on Scottish identity.Historic The tragic massacre of Glencoe—what really happened on that fateful night?Jacobite Follow Bonnie Prince Charlie's exciting and romantic quest to win back the British throne.Scotland’s Industrial See how Scottish cleverness helped start the Industrial Revolution.Philosophers and Learn about the smart thinkers like Francis Hutcheson, Lord Kames, David Hume, and Adam Smith, who created ideas for modern capitalism, history, and philosophy.
The second part of this book takes you into Scotland's magical past. Each story is easy to read and full of the magic and history that make Scotland special. Whether you like ghost stories, enjoy historical legends, or just love a good tale, this book will capture your imagination.

In the second part of this book, you will discover these exciting myths and The Winter Learn how the cold touch of the Cailleach shaped Scotland's rough landscape.Giants of See the epic battle of two giants that created the amazing Giant’s Causeway.William Wallace’s Relive the exciting story of Scotland’s greatest hero and his fight for freedom.Haunted Feel the spooky presence of ghosts wandering the ancient halls of Scotland's castles.Selkies and Be touched by the sad love stories of the magical seal-people, the Selkies.Blue Men of the Meet the mysterious Blue Men who helped and haunted sailors on the high seas.Bean Nighe’s Death Discover the chilling legend of the washerwoman who foretells death.

Genres: History

198 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 9, 2024

Reviews

[Jim MacKinnon · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent, concise introduction to the history and mythology of Scotland. In Part I: Scottish History, the author begins by relating the earliest evidence of human activity in what is now Scotland dating from the Stone Age around 12,000 BCE. We then learn about the earliest examples of advanced societies such as the stone village at Skara Brae on the Orkney islands dating from about 3000 BCE. During the subsequent Bronze and Iron Ages we see the emergence of tribal societies such as the Picts and Scots. The Romans invaded the British peninsula in the first century AD, but Scotland remained elusive to Roman rule. Hadrian’s Wall was constructed to mark the border between the Roman Empire and England to the south and free and ‘wild’ Scotland to the north. The tribes of the Picts and Scots were ultimately united by Kenneth MacAlpin around 850 AD forming the Kingdom of Scotland. Subsequent kings expanded the Scottish territory and often found themselves in conflict with the British. The Wars of Scottish Independence (1296-1357) gave rise to such national heroes as William Wallace and Robert the Bruce, who secured an independent Scotland, at least for several centuries, until union with the British in 1707, the Act of which dissolved the Scottish Parliament and formed the Kingdom of Great Britain. Issues of independence and national identity remain with the Scottish people to this day.

In Part 2: Scottish Mythology, the author takes the reader through the major Celtic myths, folktales, and legends that have shaped Scottish identity and culture. For example, there is the creation myth of the Winter Hag (The Cailleach) who shaped Scotland’s rocky landscape. This is also the land of mysterious creatures like the Kelpies, Selkies, and the Loch Ness Monster, whose stories continue to fascinate. Furthermore, Scotland would not be without its ghost stories. Ancient castles are said to harbour eerie presences like the Ghost Piper of Edinburgh Castle or the haunting Green Lady of Crathes. Finally, no culture would be without its love stories such as the tragic saga of Deirdre and Naoise.

[Shelley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was interested in a particular time frame of Scottish history, so I only read up to that point. This book has some great information, but it's lacking in "readability". I didn't find myself absorbed in it or even remotely enthralled. I hoped for more coverage in historical mythology but there was very little mention up to the 14th century. Perhaps it gets better as the book continues, but for my purposes, I did not have any desire to continue reading. So good info, lackluster writing.

[Richard Evely · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to the audiobook. The information was new to me. I especially enjoyed learning how Scotland led the English speaking world in religion, science and philosophy during the Industrial Age. The legendary myths could have been a bit more engaging if I knew how today’s Scots use and relate them.