Walter Scott and the Greening of Scotland: Emergent Ecologies of a Nation

Walter Scott's work explores the changing ecologies of Scotland over centuries, situating his writing in the context of the emerging Anthropocene. Susan Oliver investigates changes and losses in counterpoint to the narratives of improvement in land management, and explores the imaginative ecologies of folklore and local culture. Each chapter establishes a dialogue between ecocritical theory and Scott as a storyteller of social history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 251 pages
Publication date: 21 December 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Walter Scott, a renowned nineteenth-century author, presents a captivating narrative that delves into the intricate transformations of Scotland's ecosystems across centuries. Through his literary prowess, Scott weaves this narrative into the rich tapestry of environmental literature, offering a unique perspective on the evolving relationship between humans and their natural surroundings. His writings encompass a wide range of environments, including farmed landscapes, towering mountains, vast moors, dense forests, meandering rivers, bustling shorelines, picturesque islands, and vast oceans. By situating Scott's work within the context of the emerging Anthropocene, he explores the intricate interplay between shared human and nonhuman environments.

Susan Oliver, in her insightful contribution, delves into the contrasting narratives of improvement and loss that accompany modernization in land management. She conducts an in-depth investigation into the imaginative ecologies of folklore and local culture, shedding light on the ways in which these narratives shape our understanding of the environment. Each chapter in this book serves as a vibrant dialogue between ecocritical theory and Scott, as the storyteller of social history. This captivating volume demonstrates how Scott challenged conventional notions about the immutability of stone and the fleeting nature of air. It begins with the land and concludes by gazing at the celestial expanse, inviting readers to contemplate the profound interconnectedness between humanity and the natural world.

Through his meticulous research and poetic prose, Walter Scott has created a masterpiece that not only entertains but also educates and inspires. His work serves as a testament to the power of literature to illuminate the complexities of environmental change and foster a deeper appreciation for our planet's rich biodiversity. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the intersection of history, literature, and environmentalism, as it offers a profound and thought-provoking exploration of the changing ecologies of Scotland and the broader human-nature relationship.

ISBN-13: 9781108926881