Summary

Scottish literature spans works from the earliest surviving prose to contemporary works. It includes writing in various languages, primarily English, Scottish Gaelic, Lowland Scots, and others.

Early History (6th-16th Centuries)

  • The earliest surviving Scottish literature is from the 6th century, written in Brythonic.
  • Gaelic literature flourished in the 13th-14th centuries, including works by Gille Brighde Albanach, Colm Cille, and the "Lebor Bretnach."
  • Scottish writers emerged in the 14th century, notably John Barbour, author of Brus.
  • In the 15th and 16th centuries, there was a significant output of secular literature, including works by David Lyndsay, Robert Henryson, and William Dunbar.

Early Modern Era (16th-17th Centuries)

  • Scottish literature received royal patronage under James V and VI, who promoted the use of Scots.
  • The Castalian Band, a group of court poets, contributed to the development of Renaissance poetry.
  • George Buchanan was a major figure in neo-Latin poetry, influencing Scottish and Continental literature.
  • The ballad emerged as a significant literary form, collected and written by authors like Robert Sempill and Lady Grizel Baillie.

18th-19th Centuries

  • The Union with England in 1707 led to a decline in the use of Scots.
  • Allan Ramsay and Robert Burns led the "vernacular revival," fostering interest in older Scottish literature and creating works in Scots.
  • James Macpherson's "Ossian Cycle" gained international recognition, influencing Romantic literature.
  • Walter Scott's historical novels, such as "Ivanhoe," played a significant role in shaping Scottish cultural identity.

20th and 21st Centuries

  • The "Scottish Renaissance" in the early 20th century revived interest in Scots literature.
  • Hugh MacDiarmid led the movement to revive the Scots language as a literary medium.
  • Other notable writers include George Mackay Brown, Edwin Morgan, and Irvine Welsh.
  • Scottish literature today continues to explore diverse themes and formats, reflecting its rich literary heritage and dynamic cultural landscape.