The Kingdom of the Isles: Scotland's Western Seaboard c.1100-1336

Paperback / softback

Main Details

Title The Kingdom of the Isles: Scotland's Western Seaboard c.1100-1336
Authors and Contributors      By (author) R. Andrew McDonald
Physical Properties
Format:Paperback / softback
Pages:280
Dimensions(mm): Height 235,Width 115
Category/GenreBritish and Irish History
ISBN/Barcode 9781904607793
ClassificationsDewey:941.1402
Audience
General
Edition 2nd
Illustrations Maps; Tables, black and white; 12 Plates, black and white

Publishing Details

Publisher John Donald Publishers Ltd
Imprint John Donald Short Run Press
Publication Date 1 August 2008
Publication Country United Kingdom

Description

This study explores the history of the western seaboard of Scotland (the Hebrides, Argyll and the Isle of Man) in a formative but often neglected era: the central middle ages, from the mightly Somerled to his descendant John MacDonald, the first Lord of the Isles (c. 1336). Drawing on a variety of sources, this very readable narrative deals with three major and closely interrelated themes: first, the existence of the Isles and coastal mainland as a kingdom from c.1100 to 1266; second, the rulers of the region, Somerled and his descendants, the MacDougalls, MacDonalds and MacRuaris; and third, the often complex relations among the Isles, Scotland, Norway and England. A fully rounded history emerges, which transcends national viewpoints. While political history predominates, the changing nature of society in the isles is emphasised throughout, and separate chapters address the church and monasticism as well as the monuments - the castles, monasteries, churches and chapels that form an enduring legacy.

Author Biography

R. Andrew McDonald is Professor of History at Brock University, Canada, where he was the founding director of the Centre for Medieval and Renaissance Studies. He is the author of many books, book chapters and articles on medieval Scottish, Hebridean and Manx history, including The Kingdom of the Isles: Scotland's Western Seaboard, c.1100-c.1336, and is co-editor of The Viking Age: A Reader and Alba: Celtic Scotland in the Middle Ages.