Sorley Maclean The poet as historian
Sorley Maclean (Somhairle MacGill-eathain, 26 October 1911 – 24 November 1996) stands as a towering figure in Gaelic literature and a poet with a global readership. Join Professor Hugh Cheape as he delves into the influences behind Maclean’s work, exploring not just his poetry but also the landscapes and communities that shaped him, as well as the rich cultural heritage of the Hebrides.
Raised during the interwar years, Maclean was deeply conscious of the economic struggles in the islands and the escalating international conflicts of his time. In response to the shortcomings of this global order, he crafted poetry of profound, epic stature. Simultaneously, he turned to the vibrant linguistic and cultural traditions of the 16th and 17th centuries for validation, drawing from a treasury of Gaelic songs by celebrated poets of that era, alongside a vast, untapped reservoir of anonymous verse. This lecture will highlight key themes in Maclean’s work, reflecting on their significance for a deeper appreciation of Highland history, both now and in the future.
The event will feature readings of Sorley Maclean’s poetry performed by Ann Paterson. Organized in partnership with Capital Gaelic, this talk coincides with the ‘Treasures of the National Library of Scotland’ exhibition at George IV Bridge, Edinburgh. Items from Sorley Maclean’s personal archive are showcased in this exhibition, which runs until September 2025.
About the speakers:
Professor Hugh Cheape is a renowned authority on Scottish ethnology and musicology. Currently affiliated with Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI, he teaches the MSc in Cultar Dùthchasach agus Eachdraidh na Gàidhealtachd, leveraging his extensive research and numerous publications on subjects like Highland history, traditional practices, tartans, and piping.
Ann Paterson, a native Gaelic speaker from Lewis, has been an active member of Edinburgh’s Gaelic community for more than three decades. She presently spearheads the Capital Gaelic initiative.
Please note that this is a paid event.
