In Defence of Ossian: Being a Summary of the Evidence in Favour of the Authenticity of the Poems (Classic Reprint) - Softcover
Synopsis
Is Ossian authentic or a carefully crafted creation? Explore the debate and the evidence.
This 1906 reprint presents a concise look at the long-standing question of whether the Ossian poems were truly preserved by oral tradition or the product of later invention. Drawing on sworn testimony, manuscripts, and the opinions of clergymen and scholars, it argues that the poems likely existed in some form before their publication and that dismissal of their authenticity rests on prejudice and language barriers. The book situates the debate in its historical context and calls for careful comparison of Gaelic and English texts to distinguish fact from legend.
- Learn the central claims for and against the Ossian material, including what witnesses and manuscripts suggest.
- See how Gaelic language and Highland traditions are weighed in debates about genuine authorship.
- Understand how early translators and later critics shaped the reception of Ossian across Europe.
- Get a sense of the tone, reasoning, and evidence used in early 20th‑century literary controversy.
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In Defence of Ossian (Classic Reprint)
Print on DemandSeller: Forgotten Books, London, United Kingdom
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Paperback. Condition: New. Print on Demand. This book delves into the enduring controversy surrounding the authenticity of the Ossian poems, a collection of epic Gaelic works attributed to the ancient bard Ossian. The author passionately defends the poems' legitimacy, navigating through centuries of debate and scholarly scrutiny. The heart of the matter lies in the accusations against James Macpherson, the translator who brought these poems to light in the 18th century. Macpherson faced accusations of fabricating the poems himself, drawing inspiration from Gaelic ballads and folklore. However, the author meticulously presents evidence to counter these claims, highlighting the existence of ancient Gaelic manuscripts and the testimonies of numerous individuals who had firsthand knowledge of the poems' oral tradition. The book explores the cultural and historical significance of the Ossian poems, examining their portrayal of ancient Gaelic society, its heroes, and its values. The author delves into the linguistic aspects of the poems, addressing the challenges of translating ancient Gaelic into modern languages while preserving the essence of the original works. Ultimately, this book challenges readers to reconsider their understanding of the Ossian poems and their place in literary history. The author's compelling arguments and insightful analysis shed light on the complexities of cultural heritage, oral tradition, and the enduring power of ancient poetry. This book is a reproduction of an important historical work, digitally reconstructed using state-of-the-art technology to preserve the original format. In rare cases, an imperfection in the original, such as a blemish or missing page, may be replicated in the book. print-on-demand item. Seller Inventory # 9780259950608_0
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In Defence of Ossian: Being a Summary of the Evidence in Favour of the Authenticity of the Poems (Classic Reprint)
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PAP. Condition: New. New Book. Shipped from UK. Established seller since 2000. Seller Inventory # LW-9780259950608
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In Defence of Ossian: Being a Summary of the Evidence in Favour of the Authenticity of the Poems (Classic Reprint)
Seller: PBShop.store UK, Fairford, GLOS, United Kingdom
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PAP. Condition: New. New Book. Shipped from UK. Established seller since 2000. Seller Inventory # LW-9780259950608
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