The Fin-De-Siecle Scottish Revival: Romance, Decadence and Celtic Identity

During the Irish Revival and the Home Rule debate in the UK, Scotland experienced a cultural defense and revivalism movement, as seen in the works of writers and artists such as Robert Louis Stevenson, Patrick Geddes, Fiona Macleod, Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Mona Caird, Arthur Conan Doyle, John Duncan, and various contributors to The Evergreen. This movement positioned Scottish literature and art alongside international cultural trends, particularly the rise of decadence, symbolism, and Celticism, and played a significant role in shaping the Scottish Revival.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 31 August 2021
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

As the Irish Revival gained momentum and the Home Rule debate dominated UK politics, what transpired in Scotland? This captivating book unveils distinct yet interconnected concerns with cultural defense and revivalism in fin-de-siècle Scotland, evident in the work of numerous writers and artists, including Robert Louis Stevenson, Patrick Geddes, Fiona Macleod, Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Mona Caird, Arthur Conan Doyle, John Duncan, and various contributors to The Evergreen. By situating Scottish literature and art alongside international developments in culture, particularly the rise of decadence, symbolism, and Celticism, Michael Shaw adeptly demonstrates how dissident fin-de-siècle styles and ideas actively supported and defined the Scottish Revival.

The Irish Revival, a cultural movement that swept across Ireland in the late 19th century, brought about a renewed interest in Irish culture, language, and history. This revival was driven by a desire to reclaim Irish identity and promote a sense of national pride after centuries of British rule. In Scotland, the Irish Revival had a significant impact on the arts and literature, with many Scottish writers and artists drawing inspiration from Irish traditions and themes.

One of the most notable figures associated with the Scottish Irish Revival was Robert Louis Stevenson. Stevenson, a Scottish writer best known for his novels such as Treasure Island and The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, was deeply influenced by Irish folklore and mythology. His work often featured characters with Irish backgrounds, and he incorporated Irish themes and symbols into his writing.

Another key figure in the Scottish Irish Revival was Patrick Geddes, a Scottish architect and urban planner who was known for his advocacy of sustainable design and his belief in the power of culture to shape society. Geddes was a strong supporter of the Irish Revival and incorporated Irish architectural styles and motifs into his designs, such as the use of Celtic knots and spirals.

In addition to writers and artists, the Scottish Irish Revival also had a significant impact on the political landscape. Many Scottish nationalists saw the Irish Revival as a way to promote a sense of Scottish identity and to challenge the dominance of British rule. The Scottish National Party, which was founded in 1880, drew heavily on Irish nationalist traditions and used the Irish Revival as a platform to promote Scottish independence.

The Scottish Irish Revival also had a significant impact on the cultural life of Scotland. The movement brought about a renewed interest in traditional Scottish music, dance, and literature, and many Scottish musicians and dancers began to incorporate Irish influences into their work. This fusion of Scottish and Irish cultural traditions led to the development of new forms of Scottish music and dance, such as the Scottish folk revival and the Irish dance tradition in Scotland.

Despite the positive impact of the Scottish Irish Revival, the movement was not without its challenges. Some critics argued that the movement was too focused on Irish identity and that it neglected the unique Scottish cultural traditions and heritage. There were also tensions between Scottish nationalists and Irish nationalists, particularly in the years leading up to the Irish War of Independence in 1919.

In conclusion, the Scottish Irish Revival was a significant cultural movement that had a profound impact on Scotland in the late 19th century. The movement brought about a renewed interest in Irish culture, language, and history, and it influenced the arts and literature, as well as the political landscape. While the movement faced challenges, it ultimately contributed to the development of a more diverse and inclusive Scottish culture.

Weight: 486g
Dimension: 154 x 233 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474433969