Synopses & Reviews
A! Fredome is a noble thing Fredome mays man to haiff liking Fredome all solace to man giffis He levys at es that frely levys These are some of the most famous lines in Scottish literature. They were written c.1375 by John Barbour, Archdeacon of Aberdeen, as a celebration of the Age of Chivalry—an age of bravery, valor, and above all loyalty. Its twin heroes are Robert the Bruce and James Douglas, his faithful companion. The epic sweep and scale of the poem catch the full drama of Bruces life—from being pursued by dogs in Galloway to his great triumph at Bannockburn, from hunted fugitive surrounded by traitors to kingship of a free nation. The poem is one of the key sources for any life of Bruce and incorporates much information not found elsewhere. The language of the poem is easy to read and its vigor and imagery provide a marvelous insight into the medieval mind. This is the first accessible modern edition featuring a full historical introduction, a special commentary on Bannockburn, a facing page translation with extensive annotation, and six detailed maps. This edition also includes the other great nationalist statement about the reign of Robert the Bruce, The Declaration of Arbroath. A. A. M. Duncans work on The Bruce represents the culmination of a life-long interest and this book, comprehensively revised in 2007, marks a radical reassessment of the history of Robert the Bruce as recounted in the poem which bears his name. Edited and introduced by A.A.M. Duncan.
Synopsis
One of the greatest masterpieces of Scottish -- if not European -- literature, this is the first accessible modern edition of the poem. With translations and detailed notes, Barbour's famous poem lives again, bringing to life an age of bravery, valor and loyalty.
Synopsis
This is a full translation of the Scottish epic "The Bruce." The poem is regarded as one of the key sources for the life of Robert the Bruce. It contains detailed notes explaining and simplifying the narrative, as well as contemporary accounts. The book includes "The Declaration of Arbroath."
About the Author
John Barbour (1320-95) was an early Scottish poet and the first major author to write in Scots.