In "Lancashire Humour," Thomas Newbigging presents a rich tapestry of wit and satire that captures the essence of the social and cultural landscape of 19th-century Lancashire. Through a series of interconnected sketches, anecdotes, and humorous tales, Newbigging employs a distinctively colloquial style that resonates with the region's dialect and folk traditions. His adept use of irony and caricature not only entertains but also provokes thoughtful reflection on the peculiarities of local ...

Tales of suspense for the twilight hour...Dark Encounters is a collection of classic and elegantly unsettling ghost stories. A spine-tingling collection, these tales are set in the brooding landscape of Scotland, with an air of historic authenticity – often referring to real events, objects and people. From a demonic text that leaves its readers strangled to the murderous spectre of a feudal baron, this is a crucial addition to the long and distinguished c...

RISH  FAIRY AND FOLK TALES  EDITED AND SELECTED BY W. B. YEATS

Nobel Prize winning writer and poet W.B. Yeats included almost every sort of Irish folk in this marvelous compendium of fairy tales(1892).

The Free Fishers by John Buchan tells the story of a young man named Peter who leaves his studies to go salmon fishing in the Scottish highlands. There he meets a mysterious older man named Basil who draws him into a secret society called the Free Fishers that is devoted to overthrowing tyranny and oppression. As Peter gets more involved with the group's daring plans, he finds himself in increasing danger even as he falls in love with Basil's beautiful daughter. This thrilling adventure no...

The story of a boy's spiritual transformation in the shadow of the Scottish Highlands—from the 19th-century author of David Elginbrod.In George MacDonald's most well-known novel, published in 1868, the quest of young Robert Falconer for his father becomes a parallel quest to break free from the oppressive Calvinist theology of his grandmother. As he struggles to come to terms with the strict orthodoxy prevalent in Scotland for two centuries, the doctrine o...

A concise but comprehensive collection of famous Scottish quotes.

In "English As We Speak It in Ireland," P. W. Joyce provides a comprehensive examination of the distinct linguistic characteristics and vernacular expressions prevalent in Ireland during the late 19th century. This work deftly navigates the interplay between English and Irish languages, presenting a rich tapestry of idioms, pronunciations, and regional dialects that illustrate the cultural identity and social realities of the Irish people. Joyce employs a descriptive linguistic style that ...

William Carleton's "The Hedge School; The Midnight Mass; The Donagh" serves as a poignant exploration of rural Irish life in the 19th century, offering readers a nuanced perspective on the socio-economic realities and cultural traditions of the period. Through his vivid storytelling and rich character development, Carleton delves into themes of education, religious practice, and community dynamics, encapsulating the struggles and triumphs of his protagonists amidst the backdrop of a deeply...

INTRODUCTION. Many of the superstitions which still cling to him the Lancashire man of the present day is indebted to his Celtic and Scandinavian ancestors. From them the Horse and Worm stories, and the Giant lore of the northern and southern mountains and fells, have come down, while the relationship of the 'Jinny Greenteeth/ the presiding nymph of the ponds and streams, with allusions to whom the Lancastrian mother strives to deter her little ones from venturing near the pits and brooks ...

Robert Louis Balfour Stevenson (13 November 1850 – 3 December 1894) was a Scottish novelist, poet, essayist, and travel writer. His most famous works are Treasure Island, Kidnapped, and Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.A literary celebrity during his lifetime, Stevenson now ranks among the 26 most translated authors in the world. His works have been admired by many other writers, including Jorge Luis Borges, Bertolt Brecht, Marcel Proust, Arthur Conan Doyle, Henry James, Cesare Pavese...

The story is set in the early 18th century and follows the adventures of Frank Osbaldistone, the protagonist, who becomes embroiled in political intrigue and encounters the legendary Scottish folk hero, Rob Roy MacGregor.The novel is known for its vivid descriptions of the Scottish landscape, its exploration of themes such as honor, loyalty, and justice, and its portrayal of the tension between the English and Scottish cultures during that era."Rob Roy" is celebrated for its engaging narra...