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Before Scotland
A Prehistory
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Format: Paperback / softback
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See moreA pioneering look at early Scotland that transforms prehistory into gripping narrative.
A pioneering look at early Scotland that transforms prehistory into gripping narrative history
Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and
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Description
A pioneering look at early Scotland that transforms prehistory into gripping narrative history.
The story of the land that became Scotland is one of dramatic geological events and impressive human endeavour. Alistair Moffat's gripping narrative ranges from the great thaw at the end of the Ice Age—which was instrumental in shaping Scotland's magnificent landscape—through the megalith builders, the Celts and the Picts, to the ascension of King Constantine II.
Moffat deploys his knowledge with wit and deftness, interweaving the story with numerous special features on topics as diverse as cave drawings of dancing girls, natural birth control, the myth of Atlantis, and the Zoroastrian Towers of Silence—all of them valuable, sometimes quirky, additions to the whole picture. Rounding out the account is a selection of carefully chosen colour photographs that give a strong sense of the Scottish landscape and monuments.
Erudite and entertaining, Before Scotland transforms our understanding of a neglected period. A story of dramatic geological events and impressive human endeavour, it is essential reading for anyone interested in the land that became Scotland.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Before Scotland by Alistair Moffat has been praised for its vivid and compelling narrative, likened to the warmth of a dram of uisge beatha. Experts commend the book for its brilliant portrayal of the timeless connection between people and landscape, with a lively and entertaining style that makes it deserving of a wide readership.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780500297254
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 06 July 2023
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Thames & Hudson Ltd
Illustration: 1 Illustrations, black and white; 22 Illustrations, color
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Width: 129.0mm
Height: 198.0mm
Weight: 360g
Pages: 400
About the Author
Alistair Moffat was born in Kelso, Scotland. He is an award-winning writer and historian, and was Director of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and is former Rector of the University of St Andrews. He is founder of Borders Book Festival and Co-Chairman of The Great Tapestry of Scotland. His many books include The Highland Clans and Scotland's Forgotten Past, both also published by Thames & Hudson.
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