Scotland’s Nostradamus
A Quest for the Brahan Seer
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Unicorn Publishing Group
Published:16th Sep '24
Should be back in stock very soon
This is the first comprehensive study of Coinneach Odhar Mackenzie, the celebrated Highland Seer, and is the result of years of first-hand research surrounding the author’s own family history. Andrew McKenzie argues that this figure was the product of a patchwork of oral storytelling traditions that thrived in the Highlands, but was initially based on Michael Scot, the Borders born mathematician and astrologer who moved to Sicily in the early 1200s and became scientific adviser to the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II. The Battle of Culloden, the Highland Clearances, mass-emigration and industrialisation – all those major changes that the Brahan Seer was purported to have predicted – had a huge impact in society in the same way that modern conspiracy theories have had around more recent disasters.
'A fascinating exploration of local history and local tradition.' Peter Burke, Emeritus Professor of Cultural History, Cambridge University
'Andrew McKenzie has used a lifetime of research and immersion in Highland culture to separate the folklore from the facts and shed new light on one of Scotland's most enigmatic figures, the Brahan Seer. By delving beneath the magic and myth, McKenzie uncovers a history of the Highlands that helps to explain not only the origins of ‘Scotland’s Nostradamus’ but its importance and value today. I predict you will enjoy it.' George Mair, Saltire News
'The career and complexities surrounding Coinneach Odhar Fiosaiche in our culture and history make this reassessment timely and welcome.' Professor Hugh Cheape, Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, University of the Highlands & Islands
ISBN: 9781916846449
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: 548g
160 pages