Magnus Maclean Books

This historic book may contain numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can often download a free scanned copy of the original work from the publisher. Not indexed or illustrated, the 1906 edition includes an excerpt discussing Highland bards before the Forty-five. It mentions "The Owlet," three Macgregor songs, and the transition from the old bardic system to modern Gaelic poetry. Key figures include Mary Macleod, known for her life details and famous songs, and Iain Lom, a passionate poet and politician whose works, including "The Vow," reflect his eventful career. He was created Gaelic Poet-Laureate and significantly influenced Highland history. The text also references other minor bards and bardesses, imitations by Sir Walter Scott, and notable figures like the blind harper and piper, as well as a comic poet. The major bards are highlighted, along with Maccodrum's Muse and the characteristics of the group before the Forty-five. The Book of the Dean of Lismore is recognized for compiling the best of medieval Gaelic poetry and marking the end of the old bardic period. Following this, there was a nearly hundred-year gap, with only a few isolated pieces emerging, the most notable being "The Owlet," attributed to Donald Macdonald, a skilled archer and wolf-hunter from Lochaber. The poem reflects his life experiences and the challenges he faced in his later years.