A History of Scotland (Penguin History) [Paperback]

J. D. Mackie (Author), Bruce Lenman (Editor), Geoffrey Parker (Editor)

Book Description

Series: Penguin History | Publication Date: August 7, 1984

This is a history that is equally entertaining and enlightening, illustrating all of the changes of power and intricacies that are necessary to understand the interrelation between England and Scotland and the Highland and Lowland populations. It shows how Duncan (1034-40) emerged from 'the union of the four people' as the first king of a united Scotland and provides detailed, reign-by-reign accounts from then on. Above all Professor Mackie reveals how the Scots long pursued an independent line - in religion, law, culture and foreign policy - that helped them keep at bay the Romans, the French and the English.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Bruce Lenman is Professor of History at the University of St Andrews, Scotland. John Duncan Mackie (1887-1978) taught at St Andrews, Glasgow and London universities before being appointed Historiographer Royal of Scotland in 1958.

Product Details

• Paperback: 416 pages
• Publisher: Penguin (Non-Classics); Reprint edition (August 7, 1984)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0140136495
• ISBN-13: 978-0140136494
• Product Dimensions: 7.7 x 5 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #718,788 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

140 of 146 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A captivating history of Scotland and its people., October 8, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: A History of Scotland (Penguin History) (Paperback)

This book is written as more of a story of Scotland than a history. It is well developed, interesting, captivating and exciting. Probably the finest history book I've ever read. Gives an incredible overview of Scotland, and explains why those Scots who have become expats love their country despite all of the problems they have had (Highland clearances). For anyone who has been to Scotland this is a great way to learn so much about the country, and their courageous and proud people. I recommend this very highly. An enthralling book to read.

81 of 85 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A very well-written history..., September 25, 2000

By 

J. Michael Showalter (Nashville, TN United States) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

This review is from: A History of Scotland (Penguin History) (Paperback)

This is simply put one of the best places to start an inquiry into Scottish history.

Allowing the comments of one of the other reviewers, this book might not answer EVERY question that one might have regarding all of the specifics of Scots history. As in any book that sets out to tell the whole history of a people in under five hundred pages, there are omissions and a little of opaquenesses. Setting this aside, both the original author and the updaters of this book have done a remarkable job putting together a history that is equally entertaining and enlightening. This book DOES do an adequate job illustrating all of the changes of power and intricacies that are necessary to understand the interrelation between England and Scotland and the Highland and Lowland populations. It is fair which is important. And it is just a fun read.....

Beyond this, obviously, this book raises additional questions regarding the history of Scotland that must be answered by additional reading. But, then again, this is a book that as an intitiation, makes one want to read more.

I highly recommend this book....

59 of 82 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars History of Scotland, June 17, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: A History of Scotland (Penguin History) (Paperback)

The book is full of history and appears balanced in view but has far too many references to things not documented. For someone who knows nothing about British royalty, Scots history and geography this is not the place to start.

There are many confusing references. I had trouble understanding what and who Argyle is, why you spell Stewart/Stuart two ways with seemingly interchangable spellings, and many many royalty/title related terms that are confusing (duke/earl/baron etc. what's the difference?). A glossary would help. Otherwise, keep a dictionary and a good map handy.

Also the successions and following who murdered whom needs more diagrams and what diagrams and maps there are should all be redrawn for clarity.