Join Dr Michael Byrne as he explores how Gaelic writers have perceived Edinburgh and assesses the city’s impact on Gaelic literature.
From the 17th century onwards, some of Scotland’s most prominent Gaelic poets and writers have been based in Edinburgh, including: Duncan Ban Macintyre, Sorley MacLean, and George Campbell Hay.
Some of them saw Edinburgh as an alien place and expressed their desire to be back in the Gàidhealtachd (generally used to describe the Gaelic speaking regions of Scotland). Some gave vivid descriptions of different aspects of life in the city. Others framed personal contemplations and explorations against the backdrop of Edinburgh places and settings.
The city continues to be home to prominent contemporary Gaelic writers, including novelist and poet Martin MacIntyre and Scotland’s new Makar, Peter Mackay. This talk explores this rich legacy.
The event will also include Gaelic song connected to Edinburgh, performed by Edinburgh Gaelic singer, Tawana Maramba.
Speaker
Dr Michael Byrne
Dr Michael Byrne was brought up in Glasgow, learned Gaelic in Edinburgh and South Uist, and lectures at Glasgow University.
This is the fourth and final event in the series ‘Gaelic in Edinburgh: Past, present and future’ organised by Ionad Gàidhlig Dhùn Èideann.
