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A Handbook of the Scottish Gaelic World

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Anyone who is interested in any aspect of Scottish Gaelic culture- the language,clan history, pipe or fiddle music, bardic poetry, Highland dance, spirituality and so on- should read this book first. Why? Because all these things are parts of a whole, and this may be the first book to treat them that way. As a result, they are all much easier to understand, and every part of the culture makes sense on a deeper level than in previous studies. The author discusses Gaelic culture in terms of its own traditional values, and in its own words (by quoting many Gaelic poems and songs). This is an almost revolutionary approach, considering how much tartan sentimentalism, New Age marketing and anti-Gaelic propaganda have distorted the picture. This book gives a much clearer view. But there is a coherant philosophy to the book that also puts the Gaelic experience in the context of the broader world. Those who are interested in Celtic spirituality will find many illusions dispelled here. But in the process, they will also be introduced to something far more beautiful and valuable- real Gaelic spirituality and culture, which can only be understood on Gaelic terms. This is a big step in that direction.

The most upsetting thing to a student of the Scottish Gaelic Culture is the lack of accurate information available. Among "Brigadoonery", New-Age rosy-coloured romanticism, and commonly available histories of Scotland, the student is faced with errors, misrepresentations, and outright indifference to Gaelic heritage and culture. Dr. Newton's work is the first serious attempt to redress this situation.

"A Handbook of Scottish Gaelic Culture" provides a useful starting place for both the novice and the scholar by describing the culture in its own words. He uses folktales, poetry, songs and stories in Gaelic, with English translations, to support descriptions of all aspects of daily life: work, family, social, spiritual, creative life and entertainment. Many of his sources, being Gaelic, have never been available to the English-speaking student before.

Because Dr. Newton is attempting such a massive undertaking, there are some aspects of the work which are dealt with in less detail than others would like. I found it curious, for instance, that there isn't a section on fishing as a community food source. This was of prime importance in Coastal and Island communities. That said, it must be remembered that this is, after all, a "Handbook", not an "Encyclopaedia". He has included copious notes and an eleven page bibliography for further study for those who wish more information.

This book is valuable for everyone interested in the real culture of the Scottish Highlands and Islands.

I'm sick and tired of having to explain to Scottish people why I'm interested in Scottish Gaelic culture. Maybe if they read this book they'll get a good idea why it is important to Scotland as a whole (not just the Highlands), and why we should be preserving the language instead of ignoring it, or being hostile to it. If nothing else I wish someone had come up with a book like this earlier! The nearest equivalent is 'The Companion to Gaelic Scotland' which is really an encyclopedia and contains numerous omissions.

Michael Newton has managed to introduce us to Scottish Gaelic culture in a well researched and enaging way. It's not dry, it's not difficult to understand. I say introduction, as to try and cover every single aspect of history, lore and so on, in one volume, would be difficult. He has presented a cohesive, well rounded picture from the point of view of the culture itself, not as an outside study. Welcome as well, is the fact he also touches on the present state of things, which of course history books generally dont get into.
With the curious lack of this type of work, this was a welcome addition to my library. One may further research the aspects he brings to us, checking through the bibliography.
Mr. Newton also has a website, and is very active in the preservation of the language, stories, folklore. I hope he publishes more.

Whether you just have a curiosity, are seeking to know more of "your people", or are a student, this is an excellent place to begin.