Late Medieval Landscape of North-east Scotland: Renaissance, Reformation and Revolution

The north-east of Scotland's landscape has a rich history, from Macbeth's death to the last victory of a Catholic army at Glenlivet. Colin Shepherd's research shows how rural life developed sustainably within the region's constraints, but socio-economic developments led to a breakdown of this structure. The 12th-century Renaissance, Protestant Reformation, and Industrial Revolution define a framework for considering the cultural changes that affected the region, including dispossession of land ownership.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 10 August 2021
Publisher: Oxbow Books

The north-east of Scotland boasts a diverse landscape, encompassing rugged mountains, rolling farmlands, charming fishing coves, and expansive sandy bays. This region has witnessed significant historical events, including the demise of Macbeth, the final stand of the Comyns earls of Buchan against Robert the Bruce, and the last victory of a Catholic army at Glenlivet. However, beneath these monumental battles lie the quieter stories of ordinary folk, farming the land and savoring their local malts.

Colin Shepherd delves into the rural life of this region between the 13th and 18th centuries by utilizing a combination of documentary, cartographic, and archaeological evidence. He highlights the intricate ways in which the landscape was shaped by topographic and environmental factors, leading to significant variations across the area. Shepherd also explores the evidence for how late medieval lifestyles developed and blended seamlessly with their surroundings, creating a rich tapestry of cultural and agricultural diversity.

However, these socio-economic developments eventually led to a breakdown of this harmonious structure, as described by Adam Smith in the 18th century. The 12th-century Renaissance, the Protestant Reformation, and the Industrial Revolution serve as a framework for examining the cultural changes that impacted this region of Scotland. These changes include the dispossession of land ownership rights that continue to haunt policymakers in the Scottish government today. The story also illustrates how a regional cultural divergence, recognized within this context, can challenge broader theories of socio-political change when considered on a global scale.

In conclusion, the north-east of Scotland's landscape is a testament to its rich history and diverse cultural heritage. Through meticulous research and analysis, Colin Shepherd has shed light on the lives of ordinary folk and the intricate relationship between the landscape and the people who inhabit it. This region's story serves as a reminder of the complex and multifaceted nature of historical events and the lasting impact they have on the societies.

Weight: 786g
Dimension: 185 x 245 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781914427046