Leeds Trinity professor publishes comprehensive history of sixteenth-century Scotland

A Leeds Trinity University Professor’s latest book, claimed to be the most comprehensive book ever written on sixteenth-century Scotland, has been published.

​Professor Maureen Meikle, Leeds Trinity University’s Head of Humanities and Professor of Early Modern History, wrote The Scottish People 1490-1625, an enormous book of over 350,000 words.

A 15 year work-in-progress for Professor Meikle, The Scottish People is an inclusive history of sixteenth-century Scotland covering all geographical areas of the country; from the Borders, through the Lowlands to the Gàidhealtachd and the Northern Isles.

The chapters look at society and the economy, Women and the family, International relations: war, peace and diplomacy, Law and order: the local administration of justice in the localities, Court and country: the politics of government, The Reformation: preludes, persistence and impact, Culture in Renaissance Scotland: education, entertainment, the arts and sciences, and Renaissance architecture: the rebuilding of Scotland.

Professor Meikle commented:

“In many past general histories of sixteenth-century Scotland, there was a relentless focus upon the elite, religion and politics. These are key features of any medieval and early modern history books, but The Scottish People looks at less explored areas of early-modern Scottish History such as women, how the law operated, the lives of everyday folk, architecture, popular belief and culture. For sports fans there is a section showing a photo of the earliest surviving football in the world and the oldest curling stone too (held in the Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum).”