[Gesta Annalia 2 in John of Fordun, Chronicle of the Scottish NaKon (Edinburgh, 1872), volume ii, 289-90)]
Gesta Annalia’s “Yearly Deeds” is a significant medieval chronicle that provides a comprehensive account of Scotland’s history. Moreover, this period was divided into the first and second sections. The first chronicle was written before the World Wars, while the second was written after the wars. Nevertheless, this analysis will focus on the second chronicle since it offers valuable information on the Scottish kingdom, unlike the first one, which is a bit sketchy. Gesta Annalia II’s author is still mysterious, though the chronicles were written around 1363.
Conversely, Gesta Annalia II consists of a reconstruction of similar events of Alexander III’s life that resemble reality. The two chronicles were later combined in a single manuscript to provide a comprehensive kingdom story. ‘Gesta Annalia II by John of Fordun’s analysis starts from Alexander III‘s marriage in 1285, which is the primary source used in evaluating the inauguration of Alexander III as King in 1249. Fordun’s excerpt offers a valuable understanding of medieval Scottish’ inauguration ceremonies, cultural identity, and political system
Fordun’s excerpt focuses on a Scottish priest and historian at the end of Alexander III’s reign between 1241 and 1286. Additionally, the text was documented towards the end of the 14th century, which was a watershed moment in Scottish history.[1] The text highlighted the end of Alexander III’s reign, creating some questions on its credibility since Fordun heavily depended on existing sources, like oral traditions and written documents, which may contain some bias. The story’s context is based on an era of political and social turmoil in Scotland since the country was experiencing internal conflict, which influenced its historical legacy and cultural identity. Hence, Fordun’s text uses several credible sources to prove its antiqueness.
Fordun is considered a reliable historical writer based on his background research that influenced his writing. Fordun used various sources, including prior chronicles, oral traditions, and historical records.[2] Like other historical narratives in the medieval era, Fordun incorporated legendary and mythological elements in his text. Furthermore, Fordun’s comprehension of events could have been influenced by his personal bias and the prevailing political situation during that era. Although the text has significance in the study of medieval Scottish history, modern historians treat it with discretion since they carefully compare its material with other sources in the same era and later build a more precise and in-depth understanding of the historical events in this source.
Fordun’s text is considered a primary source because it depicts historical events and periods of the Scottish empire. Further, this text is a historical narrative that presents a detailed description of Scotland’s history by blending factual records and legendary stories in its interpretations. Furthermore, Fordun’s text is expected to highlight many historical events in Scotland from its publication in the 14th century, including conflicts, monarchial rulers, and remarkable political events.[3] Like most historical fiction, Fordun’s work is expected to narrate stories and myths commonly used in the medieval era. For instance, the text can include Scotland’s origins, anecdotes on saints, and other mythical individuals. Moreover, this text is expected to offer a profound understanding of the Scottish medieval era’s societal and religious traditions and rituals.
The genre is historical fiction since it documents events for future generations, providing valuable observations on political, social, and religious customs. Nevertheless, historical fiction is characterized by focusing on specific agendas and manipulating the tales to align with political or ideological objectives.[4] Unlike the common perception, historical fiction can involve true and fictional traditional stories. Based on future writings, Fordun’s text is expected to cover a retroactive veneration of Scottish monarchy and national identity based on Scotland’s political situation during that era, which was littered with prolonged conflicts with the English who desired to assert its authority.
Fordun’s target demographic presumably comprises Scotland’s educated and governing elites, with a vested interest in the nation’s history and cultura
Struggling with online classes or exams? Get expert help to ace your coursework, assignments, and tests stress-free!