'Fingal', by James Macpherson, 1762 [Library shelfmark: Oss.5].
The Scottish Enlightenment saw a renewed interest and appetite for aspects of Gaelic culture. The stories of the legendary early Gaelic poet, Ossian were adapted by Scottish poet James Macpherson (1736-1796) during the later 18th century.
Though Macpherson used themes, plots and names from Gaelic sources, he added numerous descriptions of nature and romantic episodes.
His poems, including 'Fingal', were very popular and created an interest in visiting the Highlands. His descriptive style went on to influence many 19th-century writers such as Sir Walter Scott.
Explore the Ossian collection in our digitised early Gaelic book collections.
View illustrations of poems of Ossian from a previous display.