NATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS CURRICULUM SUPPORT
History
Annotated Bibliography for
Northern Britain from the
Romans to AD 1000
[ADVANCED HIGHER]
Lawrie Johnston

First published 2001
Electronic version 2001
© Learning and Teaching Scotland 2001
This publication may be reproduced in whole or in part for educational
purposes by educational establishments in Scotland provided that no profit
accrues at any stage.
Acknowledgement
Learning and Teaching Scotland gratefully acknowledge th is contribution to
the Higher Still support programme for History.
ISBN 1 85955 897 6
Learning and Teaching Scotland
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CONTENTS
Introduction
iv
Section 1:
Native society
1
Section 2:
Roman
5
Section 3:
Post-Roman
9
Section 4:
Viking
14
Section 5:
The Internet
18
Section 6:
Periodicals and journals
19
Section 7:
Other resources
20
HIST O RY
iii
INTRODUCTION
This field of study provides an opportunity to investigate the peoples, events,
developments and beliefs that shaped the formation of the early Scottish
Kingdom. As interest in Scottish history increases, this formative era
deserves attention. The primary evidence for this period is richly varied but
relatively scarce. Whether the contribution of the historian or the
archaeologist is more significant is a key theme of this study in depth.
The following list of books is organised according to the main periods
covered by the study in depth. Where a book covers more than one period it
has been listed in the category to which it makes the greatest contribution.
The books range from introductory texts (many students may not have
covered this period since S1) to specialised volumes and primary texts
suitable for dissertations. Many of the books and Internet sites listed here
contain reading lists for further study.
iv
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NA T IV E SO CI E T Y
SECTION 1
Armit, Ian, Celtic Scotland , London: Batsford/Historic Scotland,
1997
A recent and welcome addition to the Batsford/Historic Scotland series
that is delivered in the house style of readable, accessible text, well
supported by photographic evidence. The period from the Iron Age to the
Picts, Britons and Scots is covered. The author reassesses Piggot’ s view of
the ‘Celtic Cowboys’, and the chapter on the clash with Rome is also
thought provoking. This is an excellent introductory text well worth
considering as a class reader.
Armit, Ian, Scotland’ s Hidden History , Stroud: Tempus Publishing,
1998
A gazetteer with a difference. The author selects one hundred sites that he
claims typify the period. The later entries on Iron Age forts and farms,
brochs, the Romans, Picts, Angles, Scots, Britons and the Vikings are all
useful. Each chapter begins with a general Introduction followed by a
description of the selected sites. The detail provided for each site is
succinct and informative. Excellent photographs and line drawings
accompany the text.
Armit, Ian, The Archaeology of Skye and t he Western Isles ,
Edinburgh: Edinburgh University Press, 1996
This work details excavations in the area from Neolithic times to the
Highland Clearances, so only selected sections are useful. Those on
brochs, wheel houses, Picts, Scots and Vikings are particularly good.
Cunlif f e, Barry, The Ancient Celts , Oxf ord: Oxf ord University
Press, 1997
This renowned archaeologist of the Iron Age explores the issues and
controversies surrounding all things Celtic. He approaches the Celts from a
European perspective, examining the archaeologi cal evidence to provide a
comprehensive picture of Celtic art, language, religion and society. He
provides a broader context for the Iron Age in North Britain.
Cunlif f e, Barry, Iron Age Comm unities in Britain , London:
Routledge & Kegan Paul, 1974
Although dated, this remains a standard work on the Iron Age and it
provided a chronological framework for the British Iron Age, including
North Britain. The detail and reporting of the archaeological evidence is
impressive. A useful model to compare with more rec ent research.
Duncan, A A M, Scotland: The Making of t he Kingdom , Edinburgh:
Mercat Press, 2000
The first volume in the reprinted ‘Edinburgh History of Scotland’ which
will provide students with an historian’s overview of the whole period.
HIST O RY
1
NA T IV E SO CI E T Y
Feacheam, R W, Guide to Prehistoric Scotland , London: Batsf ord,
1992
A somewhat dated but still useful gazetteer of prehistoric Scotland. It is
organised in ten sections, those concerned with hillforts, duns, crannogs
and Pictish symbol stones being the most relevant. T he sites are organised
alphabetically by the old Scottish counties. However, each entry has a
National Grid reference for the 1:50,000 Ordnance Survey map series
which is extremely useful for field visits. The text is well supported with
drawings and photographs.
Hamilton, John, Mousa and Clickhim in , Edinburgh: HMSO, 1990
A short but very informative guide to the best preserved and the most
extensively excavated brochs in Scotland.
Hingley, Richard, Set tlem ent and Sacrifice, The Later Prehistoric
People of Scotland, Edinburgh: Canongate, 1998
A lively introduction to the period between 1500BC and AD200. The latest
research and views on, for example brochs and their purpose, are
summarised and short case studies provided. A useful starting point
towards further research.
Laing, Lloyd, Celtic Britain, London: Routledge & Kegan Paul,
1979
This text comes close to a class reader in that it covers the entire period.
However, the earlier Iron Age period is given more attention than the later
periods. The European Celtic dimension is explained before a detailed look
at Iron Age Britain. Evidence from North Britain is used to inform the
discussion. The chapter on the Dark Ages is useful for the author’s views
on the impact of Christianity on Scots and Picts. Now sl ightly dated, and
the author has revised his views in more recent works.
Laing, Lloyd and Jennif er, Celtic Britain and Ireland: Art and
Society, London: The Herbert Press, 1995
The authors, both renowned archaeologists, use the evidence from durable
Celtic artwork to offer insights into Celtic society, trade and technology.
The ‘Celticisation’ of Britain is viewed as a result of trade contacts with
continental Europe rather than the traditional view of immigration. The
influence of Roman culture on Celtic society is considered, as are the later
Christian and Anglo-Saxon influences. The authors argue that the Roman
influence within the province of Britannia was not as great as traditionally
suggested, and that Roman influence beyond the frontiers has been
underestimated. In the post-Roman period the ‘Golden Age’ of Celtic art
emerges, as does the variety and quality of the evidence from Dalriada,
Pictland and Ireland. Finally, the Viking influence in the ninth and tenth
centuries is considered. The text is adorned with beautiful photographs,
many in colour.
Lynch, Michael, Scotland: A New History , London: Pimlico, 1992
The first section, ‘Early Scotland’, of this standard textbook is relevant to
this period.
2
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NA T IV E SO CI E T Y
Mackie, Ew an W, Scotland: An Archaeologi cal Guide , London:
Faber & Faber, 1975
A now somewhat dated but still useful guide to Scotland’s major
archaeological monuments. Particularly useful for Iron Age sites, although
the period up to the twelfth century AD is covered.
MacSw een, Anne and Sharp, Mick, Prehist oric Scotland , London:
Batsf ord, 1989
An introduction to Scotland’s prehistoric sites arranged on a thematic
basis. Settlement, defence, burial and ceremonial sites are covered from
Mesolithic times to the Iron Age. Over one hundred sites are describe d
with impressive photographs. Detailed maps, a gazetteer of the sites and a
glossary of archaeological terms add to the value of this work.
Morrison, Ian, Landscape with Lake Dwelli ngs: The Crannogs of
Scotland, Edinburgh: Edinburgh Universit y Press, 198 5
An entertaining and informative essay which explains the advances in the
identification of crannogs from the nineteenth century to the surveys of
Lochs Tay and Awe in the 1980s. Issues relating to definition, dating,
materials, structure and form are also discussed. Essential reading for
students considering a dissertation on this topic.
Oram, Richard, Scott ish Prehistory , Edinburgh: Birlinn, 1997
A recent handbook on the archaeology of prehistoric Scotland written by a
historian. The first half of the book discusses recent research and revises
past theories. Chapter Four, which covers the period 700BC to AD500, is
the most relevant. The second half of the book is a gazetteer of the
monuments, organised geographically but arranged alphabetically. Not as
well illustrated as other gazetteers.
Pennick, Nigel, Celtic Sacred Landscapes , London: Thames &
Hudson, 1995
The author uses evidence from oral tradition, poetry, mythology,
geomancy, religion and the environment to give an account of the Celtic
world that does not depend on classical sources. This book takes the reader
beyond the usual terms of reference and in so doing provides a unique
insight into Celtic history. It will provide a broader perspective for
students embarking on a dissertation on Celtic s ociety.
Piggot, S, Scotland Before History , Edinburgh: Polygon, 1996
A reprint of Professor Piggot’s now classic essay on prehistoric Scotland
which is still useful for sparkling debate. This edition also includes a
gazetteer by Graham Ritchie.
HIST O RY
3
NA T IV E SO CI E T Y
Rideout J S; Ow en O A and Halpin, E, Hillforts of Southern
Scotland, Edinburgh: AOC Scotland/Historic Scotland, 1994
Excavation reports on a number of southern Scotland sites including
Eildon Hill North and The Dunion. The reports are accompanied by
photographs and line drawings. Essential reading for dissertations.
Ritchie, Anna and Graham, Scotland: An Oxford Archaeological
Guide, O xf ord: Oxf ord University Press, 1998
A travel guide to over 200 sites in Scotland ranging from earliest times to
AD1200, edited by Barry Cunliffe. The sites are organised by geographical
region, but lists are also included of sites by archaeological period from
the Neolithic to the twelfth century. The maps and diagrams that
accompany the text are impressive.
Ritchie, Anna and Graham, Scotland: Archaeology and Early
History, Edinburgh: Edinburgh Universit y Press, 1991
Almost the entire field of study is covered in this volume which comes
close to being a complete class text. The chapter on warrior Celts provides
an excellent summary of early fortifications and settlements. Native social
structure and art are also considered. Much of the text is based on the
authors’ own excavations. Later chapters summarise the evidence for
Britons, Angles, Scots and Picts.
Ritchie, Anna (ed.), Exploring Scotland’s Heritage , Edinburgh:
Mercat Press, 1996
A series of eight guidebooks to the archaeological remains of Scotland’s
regions, originally published by HMSO. Areas covered are Argyll and the
Western Isles; The Clyde Estuary and Central Region; Dumfr ies and
Galloway; Fife and Tayside; The Highlands; Lothian and the Borders;
Orkney, and Shetland.
4
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RO M AN
SECTION 2
Birley, Robin, The Building of Hadrian’s Wall , New castle: Roman
Army Museum Publications, 1991
An excellent little introduction to all aspects o f the construction of the
wall written by the Director of the Vindolanda Trust
Birley, Robin, Vindol anda’s Rom an Records , Blaydon: Roman Army
Museum Publications, 1994
A short introduction to the fascinating Vindolanda writing tablets which
continue to provide fresh insights into life on the northern frontier.
Examples of the tablets are illustrated and explained. A short bibliography
provides material for extended research.
Breeze, David, The Northern Frontiers of Rom an Britain , London:
Batsf ord, 1993
Breeze’s approach to the various frontiers in North Britain, from Agricola
to the fourth century, is to view them as a response to the native peoples,
be they Caledonian or Picts. As such this is a useful examination of the
relationship between Roman and native. It gives as much consideration to
the ‘barbarians’ and their dwellings as to the Roman constructions.
Breeze, David, Rom an Scotland , London: Batsf ord/Historic
Scotland, 2000
An excellent new overview of the episodic Roman period in Scotland. The
author takes a thematic rather than chronological approach. Drawing from
his own personal experience of excavating remains, he explains invasion,
conquest, occupation and withdrawal. The opening chapter summarises the
source material for the period, including the Vindolanda writing tablets
and recent aerial photography. Many new colour and black and white
photographs are included in the book. Very suitable as a class text for the
Roman period.
Breeze, David and Dobson, Brian, Hadrian’s Wall , London:
Penguin, 2000
The definitive history of Hadrian’s Wall. The authors begin with an
explanation of frontier policy and how this developed in Britain.
Archaeological and epigraphic evidence are used to describe the building
of Hadrian’s Wall. The decision to move the frontier north to the Forth–
Clyde isthmus is considered in detail, as is the difficult question of the
abandonment of the Antonine Wall. The authors argue for two occupations
and withdrawal around AD162. The Severan campaigns are also covered.
The army of the wall and its impact on the local native population is
discussed. The wall is viewed as a significant development in Roman
imperial military strategy, signifying the end of the concept of total
conquest.
HIST O RY
5
RO M AN
Green, Dudley, Discovering Hadrian’s Wal l , Edinburgh: John
Donald Publishers, 1992
A useful guide to visiting the wall and also a good introduction to this
topic for students. In addition to the better known sites, such as Chesters
and Housesteads, attention is also paid to the less well known remains,
such as Benwell. Written in an entertaining style, but lacking the in -depth
analysis of other works on the subject.
Hanson, W S, Agricol a and the Conquest of the North , London:
Batsf ord, 1987
The best secondary source available for the Flavian period. Th e author
provides a readable and extensively researched account of Agricola’s
governorship of Britain. Chapter One, on sources of evidence, should be
essential reading for every Advanced Higher candidate. The strengths and
weaknesses of literary (mainly Tacitus), epigraphic and archaeological
evidence are fully discussed. The progress of Agricola’s advance north as
described by Tacitus is compared with the evidence available from
archaeological research. The difficult post -Agricolan period is tackled in a
chapter on the anatomy of withdrawal, although as more evidence has
come to light, for example for the Gask Ridge, the author has revised his
views since publication. A highly recommended class text.
Hanson, William and Maxw ell, Gordon, Rom e’s North W est
Frontier: The Antoni ne Wall , Edinburgh: Edinburgh Universit y
Press, 1986
A most detailed and authoritative account of the Antonine Wall. Flavian,
Trajanic and Hadrianic strategy are considered first before a detailed
account of the Antonine campaign and the building and history of the wall.
The authors view the abandonment of the wall as unlikely to be a result of
native hostility. The operation of the wall and life for its garrison are
considered in detail. The final chapter on success or failure is es sential
reading for students considering dissertations on Roman frontier policy.
Hanson, W S and Slater, E A, Scottish Archaeology: New
Perceptions, Aberdeen: Aberdeen Universi ty Press, 1991
A collection of essays which discusses the problems and reflects on the
future of Scottish archaeology. An essay by Hanson and McInnes on the
future of Roman Scotland has a very useful summary of Roman Scotland
and the contribution of archaeology to the database. Other essays cover the
Iron Age and early medieval Scotland. All the essays include an extensive
Bibliography.
Ireland, S, Rom an Britain: A Sourcebook , London: Routledge, 1996
An excellent sourcebook that presents selected literary, numismatic and
epigraphic evidence for Roman Britain in chronological order. T his second
edition includes sources from Vindolanda. The final section of the book
6
HI ST O RY
RO M AN
organises the sources around the themes of religion, government,
commerce and society. A useful reference work, which gathers together
the essential sources students require.
Johnson, Stephen, Hadrian’s Wall , London: Batsf ord/English
Heritage, 1989
The author gives a very comprehensive and readable account of the wall,
placing it in the context of Roman frontier strategy. The early chapters
explain the Roman military campaigns in Britain from Claudius to Trajan.
The chapters on the planning, construction and alterations to the wall are
excellent. The photographs, maps and plans add to the textual explanation.
The Antonine period and its effect on Hadrian’s Wall are considere d, and
the chapter on ‘What was the wall for?’ adds to the debate about the
purpose of the wall. Suitable as both a class reader and as a companion for
a field trip to the wall.
Johnstone, Anne, The Wild Frontier: Exploring the Antonine Wal l ,
Edinburgh: M oubray House Press, 1986
A short but still useful guide to exploring the remains of the Antonine
Wall. Well illustrated with particularly clear photographs of the distance
slabs.
Keppie, Law rence, Scotland’s Rom an Rem ains , Edi nburgh: Mercat
Press, 1998
This revised edition, like the original, divides into two sections: one an
overview of the Romans in Scotland and the other a gazetteer of
Scotland’s Roman remains. The first part provides students with an
exceptional introduction to Scotland’s Roman past fr om the eve of
occupation to the Flavian, Antonine and Severan military campaigns. The
Roman army, military installations ranging from fortresses to watchtowers,
inscriptions, coins and pottery are clearly explained and supported by
illustrations and photographs.
Part Two provides a very useful field guide to the archaeological remains.
The revised edition includes evidence from recent work at Newstead and
Cramond. Site plans, diagrams and photographs support a text that should
be essential reading for students.
Mann, J C and Penm ann, R G, Literary Sources for Rom an Britain ,
Cambridge: London Association of Classi cal Teachers, 1990
With the exception of Tacitus’ The Agricola, this excellent little volume
contains all the other literary sources for Roman Bri tain. A short
Introduction provides an explanation of the role of the historian in the
classical world and the weaknesses in their works as documents of
historical value. The extracts from Dio and the Scriptores Historiae
Augustae are particularly relevant for events in North Britain. The
translations are arranged in order of composition, with chronological and
topic references included. These include the first literary references to
Christianity in Britain. Essential reading for students.
HIST O RY
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RO M AN
Maxw ell, Gordon, A Battle Lost , Edinburgh: Edinburgh University
Press, 1990
A concise account of the battle of Mons Graupius and the search by
archaeologists to identify the battle site. The author analyses Tacitus’
description of the battle, then uses his archaeological expertise to examine
the rival claims for the exact site of the battle. It should be of general
interest to all students and absolutely essential reading for dissertations on
this topic.
Maxw ell, Gordon, The Rom ans in Scotland , Edinburgh: The Mercat
Press, 1998
The most detailed and comprehensive account, based mainly on the
archaeological evidence, of the Roman period of North Britain. Extensive
use is made of recent research, including aerial survey. The Flavian and
Antonine occupations are covered in depth. The various campaigns and
structures are painstakingly explained. Excellent black -and-white plates,
maps and plans support the text. The author views the Antonine Wall as
evolving from a process of ‘conception and afterthought’, and uses the
evidence from distance slabs and labour camps to sketch the process of
construction and alteration.
Robertson, Anne S, The Antonine Wall , Gl asgow : Glasgow
Archaeological Societ y, 1990
The fourth edition of this popular handbook was revised with the aid of
Lawrence Keppie. The first part contains an account of the historical
background to the wall’s construction, an analysis of the components of
the wall, a description of life on the wall and the author’s views on the
Roman withdrawal. The second part of the book gu ides the reader through
the remains of the wall from Carriden to Old Kilpatrick. Each section of
the remains has relevant fort plans and photographs. Well worth
considering as a class text.
Tacitus, Gaius Cornelius, The Agricola, London: Pengui n, 1970
This classic biography is a required class text. The Penguin revised
translation by S A Hanford corrects earlier inaccuracies and is written in a
manner which gives an indication of Tacitus’ style. The original
Introduction by H Mattingly provides insight int o the life of Agricola, a
critical evaluation of Tacitus as a historian and an explanation of
Agricola’s governorship of Britain. Students are advised to study this
thoroughly as the most important literary source for Roman North Britain.
Tacitus, Gaius Cornelius, Agricola and Germ ania , Oxf ord: Oxf ord
University Press, 1999
A new and alternative translation by A R Birley. He has examined the
Roman inscriptions relating to Tacitus and suggests that Tacitus may have
served as a military tribune in Britain in the early years of Agricola’s
governorship. The Introduction to the translation provides a detailed
account of Tacitus’ career.
8
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PO S T- RO M AN
SECTION 3
Adomnan, Life of St Colum ba , London: Penguin, 1995
One of the most important primary sources for the early histor y of
Scotland, vividly translated by Richard Sharpe. The translation is prefaced
by a one-hundred-page Introduction. Sharpe’s view of Columba and his
evaluation of his contribution to the conversion of the Picts are worth
comparing with the views of Alfred Smyth (see p12). Adomnan’s work
conveys an evocative picture of the saint in his monastic community on
Iona.
Alcock, Leslie, Arthur’s Britain, London: Penguin, 1990
The author’s main purpose is to establish the historicity of Arthur, but in
so doing he provides the reader with a full account of the Britons in sub Roman Britain from AD367 to AD634. Picts, Scots and Angles are also
fully described. This is a very readable account which offers an evaluation
of the literary evidence for the period in additio n to the author’s own
archaeological evidence. This edition includes a revised Bibliography to
include recent interpretations of the Arthurian period.
Bede, The Ecclesiastical History of the English People , London:
Penguin, 1995
Bede’s eighth-century account includes important references to North
Britain, among them comments on the conversion of the Picts and the
Northumbrian bishopric at Whithorn. This revised edition also includes
Bede’s letter to Egbert.
Brooke, Daphne, Wild Men and Holy Places: St Nin ian, Whithorn
and the Medieval Real m of Galloway , Edinburgh: Canongate, 1994
A comprehensive account of the realm of Galloway from St Ninian and the
Anglian bishopric at Whithorn to the effects of Viking raiders and Irish
colonists. The author explains Ninian’s conversion of the southern Picts in
terms of a Pictish presence in the Forth basin. Literary sources, recent
archaeological evidence and place names are evaluated and reassessed.
Campbell, Ew an, Saints and Sea Kings: The First Kingdom of the
Scots, Edinburgh: Canongate/Historic Scot land, 1999
A very useful introduction to the history of the Scots and their kingdom of
Dal Riata or Dalriada. As with other books in this new series, the text is
written by an acknowledged expert in a clear and concise way . The major
historiographical issues are summarised in the context of the most recent
research. Adomnan is considered to be at least as important as Columba.
This is a well illustrated text on a subject that needs the individual
attention given here.
HIST O RY
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PO S T- RO M AN
Carver, Martin, Surviving in Sym bols: A Visit to the Pictish Nati on ,
Edinburgh: Canongat e/Historic Scotland, 1999
This is one of a new series of books produced by Historic Scotland and
Canongate. It is a most useful introduction to the Picts, giving a concise
summary of the main issues from a largely archaeological perspective.
Controversies and issues are well summarised and use is made of recent
evidence from sites such as Tarbat and Portmahomack. This is an ideal
introductory class text.
Crawf ord, Barbara E (ed.), Scotland in Dark Age Britain ,
Aberdeen: Scottish Cultural Press, 1996
An interestingly diverse mix of papers delivered at the St Andrews
University Day Conference on ‘Scotland in the Dark Ages’ in 1995.
Contributors range from historians and archae ologists to linguists and
onomasticians. Some papers are deliberately challenging and therefore
difficult for students. Others, such as Chapter Two on the early Christian
stones of south-west Britain and Chapter Five on place names and the
early church in eastern Scotland, have appeal for dissertation topics. Each
paper is well supported by suggestions for further reading. Used
selectively this collection would be valuable for dissertation research.
Cruickshank, Graeme, The Battle of Dunnichen , Angus: Pinkf oot
Press, 1991
A narrative account of this decisive battle, the events leading up to it and
the repercussions for Picts, Northumbrians and Scots. There is also an
Appendix on the Dunnichen Stone.
Cummins, W A, The Age of the Picts , Stroud: Alan Sutton
Publishing, 1999
An accessible and refreshing interpretation of the Picts. Students with
little background knowledge will find the explanations of the Pictish
chronicles and the Irish annals invaluable. The author challenges earlier
arguments by the likes of A F Smyth and L Alcock concerning the
geographical extent of Pictland, the conversion of the Picts to Christianity,
the nature of Pictish language and the meaning of the symbol stones. He
gives a detailed analysis of the early medieval historical sources such as
the Pictish chronicle, offering a balance to other authors who rely more
heavily on the archaeological evidence for their views on the Picts. The
attractive presentation of the author’s case should stimulate students to
further study. The book is well illustrated and supported by two
Appendices on the Pictish chronicle.
Foster, Sally M, Picts, Gaels and Scots , Bat sf ord/Historic Scotland,
1996, revised 1997
One of an excellent series produced by Historic Scotland, this title fills a
gap in the historical coverage of early Scotland, and has quickly become a
classic.
10
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Hill, Peter, Whithorn and St Ninian: The Excavation of a Monast ic
Town 1984–91, Stroud: Sutton Publishing, 1997
A very thorough and detailed account of the first known Christian
community north of Hadrian’s Wall based on the extensive excavations
carried out by Peter Hill and his team. The historical sources are
considered and issues regarding the date, extent and impact of Ninian’s
mission are raised. Chapters on the periods AD500 –730, AD730–845 and
AD845–1000 are particularly relevant. These periods cover a time when
Whithorn developed from a monasterium of the post -Roman church to a
Northumbrian minster. Later chapters detail the find evidence from the site
which includes early examples of Anglian glass. The book also contains
contributions from the likes of Rosemary Cramp and Dave Pollock.
Jackson, Anthony, The Pictish Trail, Orkney: The Kirkwall Press, 1989
A guidebook to the Pictish symbol stones covering an area from Edinburgh
to Inverness. As well as advice on eleven trails the author also provides a
summarised view of the symbols based on his main work, The Symbol
Stones of Scotland, in which he argues with some style that the symbols
were closely associated with Pictish matrilinea l descent.
Koch, John T (ed.), The Gododdin of Aneri n. Text and Context from
Dark Age North Britain , Cardiff : University of Wales Press, 1997
A new and controversial translation of the sixth -century British poem. The
long Introduction explains previous translations and their reliance on a
thirteenth-century manuscript. The linguistic explanations are complex, so
this text is most suitable as a reference for dissertations.
Low e, Chris, Angels, Fools and Tyrants: Britons and Anglo -Saxons
in Southern Scotl and, Edinburgh: Canongate/Historic Scotland,
1999
The title refers to two primary texts: De Excidio Britanniae by Gildas and
The Ecclesiastical History of the English People by Bede. Both are
examined in some detail, as are the other types of evidence, for example
the excavations at Hoddom, for this period and area. As with other books
in this series, the presentation is very accessible and the text provides
detail and evidence from recent research.
Macquarrie, Alan, The Saints of Scotland: Essays in Scott ish
Church History AD450 –1093, Edinburgh: John Donald Publishers,
1997
An excellent account of the Christian church in Scotland, presented as a
collection of essays here published for the first time in a single volume.
The main sources of evidence used are the medieval Vitae. The author is
therefore able to offer a different perspective from other writers on the
early Christian period. This is very clear in his treatment of St Ninian
where he argues for a sixth- rather than fifth-century date. St Columba, St
Kentigern, St Adomnan and St Maelrubai are given detailed attention. The
individual essays are of general use; the book is required reading for
dissertations on Christianity.
HIST O RY
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Morris, John, The Age of Arthur: The History of the British Isles
from 350 to 650, London: Phoeni x, 1999
A classic and comprehensive account of the British Isles from the fourth to
the seventh centuries. Several chapters relate to the Scots and the Picts and
the economy and society of North Britain. The analysis and evaluation of
the literary sources for the period is particularly impressive.
Nicoll, E H (ed .), A Pictish Panoram a: The Story of the Picts and a
Pictish Bibliography , Balgavies, 1995
This contains excellent introductory chapters by Dauvit Brown, Katherine
Forsyth, W F H Nicolaisen, Isabel Henderson, Anna Ritchie and Edwina
Proudfoot.
Ritchie, Anna, Iona , London: Batsf ord/Historic Scotland, 1997
One of a series of excellent guides produced by Historic Scotland and
Batsford. Here Anna Ritchie explains the archaeological excavations on
this most important Scottish island. The early Christian and Columban
sites dominate the book, and students studying for a dissertation would
find this material valuable. The Viking period and Iona in its wider context
are also discussed. As with all the books in this series, exceptional
illustrations and photographs support the text
Ritchie, Anna, Picts: An introduction to the Life of the Picts and the
carved Stones in the Care of the Secretary of State for Scotland ,
Edinburgh: HMSO, 1989
A valuable introduction to the Picts. Ritchie’s concise text explores the
main issues surrounding the Picts, making use of evidence from sites such
as Burghead and the Brough of Birsay. The book is lavishly illustrated and
ideal as a class text.
Smyth, Alf red P, Warlords and Holym en: Scotland AD80 –1000,
Edinburgh: Edinburgh University Press, 1989
One of the few books which covers the whole period, it does so in a
scholarly and unconventional way. Among the many strengths of this book
are a detailed account of the history of the Britons, and the impact of
Roman and Angle on their political development. St Columba is given a
rigorous evaluation and found wanting, in terms of his personal
contribution to the conversion of the Picts. Kenneth mac Alpin is viewed
as a usurper helped to power by the destructive impact of the Vikings in
both Pictland and Dalriada. The author does not subscribe to the
‘rehabilitation’ school of thought on the Vikings, but explains the
historiography of Scandinavian Scotland very well. Some of his arguments
may be too complex for students, but this is a challenging and thought provoking book.
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PO S T- RO M AN
Thomas, Charles, Cel tic Britain, London: Thames & Hudson, 1997
This covers all of Britain from the end of the Roman period. Of particular
interest is the chapter on Scotland that gives an excellent concise
introduction to the Picts, Britons, Scots, St Ninian and St Columba.
Students are also introduced to the source material for the period, ranging
from the British poem ‘The Gododdin’, to the Ogham inscriptions and
Pictish symbol stones. For dissertations the chapters on church and art are
useful. The author’s approach, which considers all of Britain, provides a
contrast to other writers whose approaches are more narrowly focused on
North Britain.
Thomas, Charles, Christian Celts: Messages and Im ages , Stroud:
Tempus, 1998
An new and intriguing interpretation of the inscriptions on the early
Christian memorial stones. The level of argument is sophisticated,
demanding some linguistic and mathematical knowledge. If used
selectively this work would be useful for dissertations on Christianity.
Thomas, Charles, Christianity in Rom an Britain to AD 500 , London:
Batsf ord, 1985
A highly impressive study of Christianity based on more than twenty years
research by the author. Of particular relevance to North Britain is the
chapter on St Ninian and Christianity in Southern Scotland. Best suited for
dissertations, although the explanations of archaeological methods are
excellent and of general interest.
Wainw right, F T (ed.), The Problem of the Picts , Edinburgh:
Melvin Press, 1980 reprint
Although very out-of-date in several respects, the six chapters (two by
Wainwright himself) started Pictish studies when the book was originally
published in 1955. They remain a valuable collection of seminal
discussions of aspects of Pictish culture.
HIST O RY
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VIK I N G
SECTION 4
Crawf ord, Barbara, Scandinavian Scotland , Leicester: Leicester
University Press, 1987
An essential text for this period. Barbara Crawford assimilates all the
evidence for the Viking and late Norse periods in Scotland and presents it
in an authoritative and readable way. The sources and evidence are
evaluated and there follows a very clear account of the history of the
Viking period from 800 to 1065. Next there is a deta iled discussion of
place names and an equally detailed account of the archaeological
evidence covering themes such as the economy and religion. It would be
difficult to find a more complete account of Scandinavian Scotland.
Fenton, A and Palsson, H (eds), The Northern and Western Isles in
the Viking Age , Edinburgh: John Donald, 1984
A very useful collection of papers which includes an examination of place
names by Fellows-Jenson, D A MacDonald’s discussion of the contribution
of Gaelic oral tradition as evidence for the Vikings, and an essay on graves
and grave goods by K Eldjarn.
Fitzhugh, William W and Ward, Elizabeth I, Vikings: The North
Atlantic Saga , London: Smithsonian Institution Press, 2000
A beautifully illustrated text which is excellent for the far wider context of
Scandinavian expansion in Europe and the North Atlantic, but with a
limited contribution on the settlements in Britain. The range of evidence
used is informative.
Fojut, Noel, A Guide to Prehistoric and Viking Shetland , Shetland:
The Shetland Times, 1994
A guidebook to Shetland’s many Viking and earlier sites. The Introduction
explains the sites in chronological order and there follows a Gazetteer that
includes colour maps and illustrations.
Foote, P G and Wilson D M, The Viking Achi evem ent, London:
Sidgw ick & Jackson, 1970
An interdisciplinary collaboration by an archaeologist and a textual
scholar which provides a balanced insight into Norse society, technology,
art and literature. The scope of the book is broad, but mainly concentr ates
on Scandinavia. Despite the fact that there is little direct reference to
North Britain, the detailed chapters on daily life, transport, warfare, justice
and religion are of general interest.
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VIK I N G
Graham-Campbell, James, The Viking Age: Gold and Silver of
Scotland AD850 –1100, Edinburgh: National Museums of Scotland
Publications, 1995
An important reference work that catalogues gold and silver materials
from hoards and other finds which are now held in a number of museums
in Scotland and in the British Museum. The text is well supported by
photographs and line drawings.
Graham-Campbell, James and Batey, Coll een E, Vikings in
Scotland: An Archaeological Survey , Edinburgh: Edinburgh
University Press, 1998
An impressive and detailed synthesis of all the archae ological evidence for
the Viking (c800–1050) and late Norse (1050–1350) periods. The authors
combine their expertise in artefactual and environmental archaeology. The
text is best suited to students with a sound knowledge of the period and
will be particularly useful for dissertation purposes. For the general reader,
Chapters One to Three cover pre-Viking Scotland, the Norwegian
background and sources for Scandinavian Scotland.
Chapters Four to Six consist of regional surveys of Northern Scotland, the
West Highlands and Islands, Southwest, Central, Eastern and Southern
Scotland. There follow chapters on case studies and interpretations of
pagan Norse graves. Chapters Nine and Ten make use of the evidence from
the last twenty-five years of Viking and late Norse settlement, including
large-scale environmental sampling. Chapter Eleven draws on this
evidence to give an account of the Norse economy.
Hall, Richard, Viking Age Archaeology , Princes Risborough: Shi re
Publications, 1990
One of the well known Shire Archaeology series, this serves as a useful
introduction for students to aspects of Viking archaeology. Short, well
organised and illustrated.
Magnusson, Magnus, The Viki ngs, Stroud: Tempus Publishing,
2000
This is the revised edition of the author’s accou nt of Viking activity in
Europe. Although the context is broader than the scope of the Advanced
Higher syllabus, many of the chapters are relevant. For example, Chapter
Two on the Norwegian background to the raids and Chapter Nine on the
Norse earldom in Scotland are informative. Many of the sources and the
archaeological evidence discussed are of interest to students preparing
dissertations on Norse life or settlements. It is written in a lively and
informed style and is well illustrated.
Marsden, John, The Fury of the Norsem en: Saints, Shrines and Sea
Raiders in the Viking Age, AD793 –878, London: Kyle Cathie, 1993
The author identifies the period AD793 to AD878 as the precise dates of
HIST O RY
15
VIK I N G
Viking raids on Northumbria, Scotland and Ireland. The discussion of
these raids is based mainly on the literary sources and from the perspective
of those being raided. The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, Alcuin’s letters,
Symeon’s History of the Church of Durham and the annals of Ulster are
the main references used.
The following may also be recommended for preliminary reading:
Marsden, J, Sea Road of the Sai nts: Celtic Holy Men in the
Hebrides, Edinburgh: Floris, 1995
Marsden, J, Alba of t he Ravens: In Search of the Celtic Kingdom of
the Scots, London: Constable, 1997
Nicolaisen W F H, Scottish Place Nam es , London: Batsf ord, 1976
The definitive study of Scottish placenames. Chapter Six on Scandinavian
names is essential reading for an understanding of the significance of place
names in the study of Scandinavian settlement in Scot land.
Oram, Richard D and Stell, Geof f rey P (eds), Galloway Land and
Lordship, Edinburgh: School of Scottish Studies, 1991
A collection of papers on the extent of Viking influence on Galloway
produced by the Scottish Society for Northern Studies. Contribu tors
include Peter Hill, Daphne Brooke, John McQueen and the editors.
Historical sources, place names and archaeological evidence are used to
untangle the complicated settlement pattern of this part of Scotland.
Earlier, similar volumes for Shetland and Caithness are out of print.
Ow en, Olw yn, The Sea Road: A Viking Voyage through Scotland ,
Edinburgh: Canongat e/Historic Scotland, 1999
Ow en, Olw yn and Dalland, Magnar, Scar: A Viking Boat Burial on
Sanday, Orkney , East Linton: Tuckw ell Press/Historic Scotla nd,
1999
The definitive account and explanation of the 1991 excavation of this
famous Viking boat grave in which the bodies of a man, woman and child
were found. Detailed information is provided on the boat, the people and
their equipment. An excellent example of the role of archaeology in
providing evidence about the Norse in Scotland.
Palsson, Herman and Edw ards, Paul (trans.), Orkneyinga Saga: The
History of the Earls of Orkney , Harmondsw orth: Penguin, 1984
The Norse saga of the conquest of the Northern Isles and Caithness by the
kings of Norway. It follows the lives of the Earls of Orkney from the ninth
to the thirteenth century and is an indispensable text for all studies of the
Norse in Scotland.
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VIK I N G
Ritchie, Anna, Viking Scotland, London: B atsf ord/Histo ric
Scotland, 1994
Archaeological, historical and linguistic sources are synthesised by the
author into an account of Scotland in the Viking age. It is most suitable as
a class reader. Three general chapters are followed by a regional survey
where the emphasis, not surprisingly, is on the Northern and Western Isles.
Detailed evidence from sites such as Rousay, Birsay, Papa Stour,
Cunningsburgh and Jarlshof is discussed. This is a good companion
volume to Crawford’s Scandinavian Scotland (p14).
Simpson, Grant G, Scotland and Scandinavia, 800 –1800,
Edinburgh: John Donald, 1989
A collection of essays by various contributors on the relationship between
the two countries. The essays covering the early period are relevant, for
example on Scotland in the Norse sagas.
HIST O RY
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TH E IN T E RN E T
SECTION 5
Department of Archaeology, University of Glasgow:
www.gla.ac.uk/archaeology
Includes information on recent projects and research by the department as
well as resources and links to related sites.
Edinburgh University Department of Archaeology: www.arcl.ed.ac.uk
Very useful for the reading lists and bibliographies provided.
Exploring Ancient World Cultures:http://eawc.evansville.edu/eawcindex.htm
An Internet index to the ancient world. A number of indexes exist based on
chronology, essays, images, sites and text. The sections on Rome are the
most relevant with information on the Flavian Emperors, Caracalla and
sub-Roman Britain.
Internet Medieval Sourcebook: www.fordham.edu
An American-based site that includes useful sources on Celtic Christianity.
ORB: http//orb.rhodes.edu
An academic site by medieval scholars which includes an encyclopedia
with entries for sub-Roman Britain, the Anglo Saxons, and Scandinavia
and the Northern Seas. Information provided includes new transcriptions
and translations of medieval texts, bibliographies, museums and
archaeological sites.
RCAHMS: www.rcahms.gov.uk
Useful information on the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historic
Monuments of Scotland’s sites.
The Roman Gask Project: www.morgue.demon.co.uk/Pages/Gask/index.html
A site operated by Manchester University Department of Archaeology that
contains recent excavation reports on the Gask Ridge and links to other
Roman sites.
S.C.R.A.N: www.scran.ac.uk
An excellent Scottish site with a wealth of relevant material, e.g. over 120
sources for the Antonine Wall. All periods from the Iron Age to the
Vikings are covered. A licence is required to access the photographic
evidence in detail.
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PE RI O D IC A L S A ND J O UR NA L S
SECTION 6
Antiquity
A quarterly journal of international archaeology, held by most university
libraries.
History Teaching Review
The journal of the Scottish Association of History Teacher s contains the
occasional article on this period.
Innes Review
Northern Studies
Proceedings of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland
The Society’s journal contains many important and relevant papers on Iron
Age and Roman Scotland.
Scottish Archaeological Gazette
Published by the Council for Scottish Archaeology and contains short
articles, many relevant to this study in depth.
Scottish Archaeological Forum
Conference lectures produced in annual volumes. The most relevant are
Volume 6 on Norseman and Normans, Volume 7 on the Romans in
Scotland, and Volume 12 on Agricola’s Campaigns in Scotland. These
early volumes are out of print but are available in university libraries.
More recent publications include ‘Beyond the brochs: changing
perspectives on the later Iron Age in Atlantic Scotland’, edited by Ian
Armit.
Scottish Historical Review
The Groam House Lectures
Annual lectures published on Northern Pictish themes. Available from
Groam House Museum, High Street, Rosemarkie IV10 8UF. Contributors
have included Isabel Henderson, Leslie Alcock, W F H Nicolaisen,
Barbara E Crawford and John Hunter.
The Whithorn Lectures
These are published annually since 1992. Contributors include Charles
Thomas, Rosemary Cramp, Richard Bailey and Daphne Brooke .
HIST O RY
19
O TH E R R E SO UR C ES
SECTION 7
Edge of Empire: A Journey along Hadrian’s Wall
An excellent video containing a series of four programmes produced by
Border and Tyne Tees Television in 1995. Contributers include Professors
Birley and Wooliscroft.
Hadrian’s Wall: Education Directory
A pack produced by a number of agencies which is extremely useful for
planning a visit to any of the sites along the wall.
Looking for Vikings
A CDROM produced by the National Museums of Scotland, Ireland and
Denmark, which is aimed at the younger school student but contains some
useful source material.
Monuments on Record
CDROM produced by the Royal Commissions on Historical Monuments
for Scotland, England and Wales. Contains sample information and
photographs from well known sites.
Motorway to the Past: The Archaeology of South-West Scotland
A video record of sites excavated by GUARD during the upgrading of the
A74 Glasgow–Carlisle road, which includes some Iron Age sites.
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