The Gaelic Otherworld

This collection of Scottish folklore, The Gaelic Otherworld, combines fairy tales, ghosts, and insights into the rich cultural traditions of the highlands.

This book presents a thorough collection of fairy tales, ghosts, and monsters from the highlands of Scotland, originally compiled by John Gregorson Campbell, a notable folklorist of the nineteenth century. The Gaelic Otherworld features extensive explanatory notes that enhance the reader's understanding of the rich tapestry of Scottish folklore. Additionally, a revised biography of Campbell provides context for his work, supported by a bibliography, maps, and an index to facilitate exploration of the material.

John Gregorson Campbell (1834–91) emerged as a significant figure in the field of folklore during the nineteenth century in Scotland. His works, including Superstitions of the Highlands and Islands of Scotland and Witchcraft and Second Sight in the Highlands and Islands, were published posthumously in the early 1900s. Through an engaging anecdotal style, Campbell introduces readers to a fascinating array of fairies, witches, ghosts, and supernatural beings, alongside the superstitions and rituals tied to the traditional calendar.

In a lively introduction, Ronald Black sheds light on Campbell’s contributions, providing readers with an enriched understanding of his work. The combination of Campbell's original tales and Black's insightful commentary makes The Gaelic Otherworld a unique and valuable resource for anyone interested in Scottish folklore and the mystique of the highlands.