A Short History of Scotland (eBook)

Andrew Lang (1844–1912) was a Scottish writer, poet, and literary critic, who is best remembered for his work as a collector of folk and fairy tales. Born in Selkirk, Lang was a prolific author who contributed to various fields of study including anthropology, mythology, history, and literature. His comprehensive literary output encompasses numerous books and articles, yet he is notably acclaimed for his fairy tale collections, such as 'The Blue Fairy Book' (1889) and its sequels which introduced generations of children and adults to a vast array of traditional stories from around the globe. Lang's 'A Short History of Scotland' illustrates his scholarly approach to the subject matter, providing readers with a concise yet informative overview of the nation's complex and turbulent past. His writing style often merges a rigorous scholarly attitude with a storytelling charm that has ensured the enduring popularity of his works. Lang's contributions to literary criticism and history were substantial, influencing both his contemporaries and later scholars. As an important figure in the literary world of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Lang's work paved the way for the acceptance of folklore and fairy tales as significant cultural and academic resources. His efforts in collecting and preserving these tales are seen as a precursor to the work of folklorists who followed, such as the Brothers Grimm and Joseph Jacobs.