Duthchas: Landscape and Community in Mull and Iona
Dùthchas is a Gaelic word reflecting the rich culture that derives from the connection between people and their landscape, and this is a book that celebrates the manifestation of that concept in Mull, Iona and the surrounding islands.
Inspired by the beauty of the magnificent landscape, the writing celebrates the fortitude and resilience of the local community living in a relatively remote and sometimes hostile corner of the world since the beginning of time through to the modern era.
As context, the book also traces the wider sweep of Scottish history including the powerful influence of clans, the emergence of Scotland as a nation state, the fateful decision to become a part of the United Kingdom, and the more recent renaissance to become a nation again.
The final sections of the book celebrate the resilience of the modern society, including three case studies of significant community activism, and accounts of the endeavours of some remarkable individuals, families and organisations.
Mike
This well and clearly referenced book will be a compelling read for people of the Highlands and Islands and all those who love this part of the world. It will be particularly enjoyed by those still of the clan but was an entertaining read for me, especially once I understood the link to the Norse and so the similarities with their sagas. I particularly liked the conclusion of the section on the clans, sad as it is.
The concept of 'Duthchas' and the community approach to occupation and defence of territory runs through the clan history and the independence of the isles. It culminates in a full description of current statutes and bodies, services and facilities, and their good effects, designed to foster and redevelop community in the present day. Those who now benefit from the beauty and majesty of these islands are rebuilding the community systems to restore an island way of life
Sue Gross