Scottish literature

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Scottish literature refers to literature written in Scotland or by Scottish writers. It includes works in English, Scots, Scottish Gaelic, and Latin. Scottish literature has a rich history, dating back to the early medieval period and continuing to the present day.

History

Medieval Period

The earliest surviving literature from Scotland includes works in Latin such as the writings of Saint Columba and Saint Adamnan. The Book of Deer, a 10th-century illuminated manuscript, contains the earliest known Gaelic writing from Scotland.

Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, Scottish literature was heavily influenced by French and English literature. Notable works from this period include the epic The Brus by John Barbour and The Wallace by Blind Harry.

Renaissance

The Scottish Renaissance saw a flourishing of literature in Scots. Robert Henryson, William Dunbar, and Gavin Douglas were prominent poets of this period. Douglas's translation of Virgil's Aeneid into Scots was a significant literary achievement.

18th Century

The 18th century was marked by the works of Allan Ramsay, who revived interest in Scots poetry, and James Macpherson, who claimed to have discovered the works of the ancient bard Ossian. Robert Burns, Scotland's national poet, also emerged during this period, writing in both Scots and English.

19th Century

The 19th century saw the rise of the Scottish novel, with authors such as Sir Walter Scott, whose historical novels were immensely popular. James Hogg, known for The Private Memoirs and Confessions of a Justified Sinner, and Robert Louis Stevenson, author of Treasure Island and Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, were also significant figures.

20th Century

The 20th century brought a renewed interest in Scottish literature, with the Scottish Renaissance movement led by figures like Hugh MacDiarmid. Lewis Grassic Gibbon's A Scots Quair trilogy and the works of Muriel Spark and Alasdair Gray are notable contributions from this period.

Contemporary Literature

Contemporary Scottish literature continues to thrive, with authors such as Irvine Welsh, known for Trainspotting, and Ali Smith, who has received critical acclaim for her innovative novels.

Languages

Scottish literature is unique in its use of multiple languages:

• Scots: A Germanic language closely related to English.
• Scottish Gaelic: A Celtic language spoken primarily in the Highlands and Islands.
• English: Widely used in modern Scottish literature.
• Latin: Used in early medieval literature.

Notable Authors

• Robert Burns
• Sir Walter Scott
• Robert Louis Stevenson
• Muriel Spark
• Irvine Welsh
• Ali Smith

Related Pages

• Scottish Renaissance
• Scots language
• Scottish Gaelic language
• Robert Burns
• Sir Walter Scott
• Robert Louis Stevenson
• Muriel Spark
• Irvine Welsh
• Ali Smith