A History of Scotland

smiddykilry · Post by **smiddykilry** » Sat Nov 22, 2008 11:32 am

Hello

Why not start with BEFORE SCOTLAND by Alistair Moffat (Thames & Hudson)

Smid

Andrew C. · Post by **Andrew C.** » Fri Dec 19, 2008 6:09 pm

Sorry to get away from the subject however I was wanting a recommendation for a book which covers an even earlier period. I know there are a few books out their about the DNA research that has taken place in recent years I was looking for a book which has commentary on how any of the myths and legends as to the origins of the British tie in (or not as the case may be) with the DNA research findings. I don't want it to be too academic however I don't want it to be a complete flight of fancy.

Hugo · Post by **Hugo** » Sun Dec 21, 2008 11:56 am

Andrew,

I can recommend "The Origins of the British" by Stephen Oppenheimer (2006). It is very readable. The sub-title is 'The new prehistory of Britain and Ireland from the ice age hunter gatherers to the vikings as revealed by DNA analysis.' It available in paperback for about 10 GBP.

Hugo

Currie · Post by **Currie** » Sun Dec 21, 2008 1:13 pm

Hello Andrew,

There’s another one, but I haven’t read it.

“Blood of the Isles” By Bryan Sykes (I think there’s a Myths and Legends section in there somewhere)
http://www.google.com.au/books?id=RFpmA ... %22&pgis=1

Alan

Malcolm · Post by **Malcolm** » Sun Dec 21, 2008 9:25 pm

Hello Rab
Considering the date of your post I am very much behind. I must pay more attention.However, I have recently written on this subject on another post and have recommended of all things, The History of Scotland by Houston&Knox. It's up to date and not cheap but, it is concise.
Hoping this helps,
M

Andrew C. · Post by **Andrew C.** » Mon Dec 29, 2008 3:02 pm

Thanks for that they were the two main books I was looking at wasn't sure how much they covered the myths aspect.

Malcolm · Post by **Malcolm** » Tue Dec 30, 2008 1:50 am

I should have mentioned that the latest, History of Scotland by Houston & Knox comes in two volumes.
Myths and Legends are covered separately in my library by a three volume set entitled, British Myths and Legends which cover the "Origins of the Scottish Nation". It's published by the Folio Society from whom you might be able to get the whole set for nothing by joining the club. If not you are welcome to borrow mine.
Just let me know
M