'A Jacobite by Name?': Jacobitism in the Life and Work of Robert Burns
Advertisement
Explore Jacobitism, identity and naming in Burns’s life and poetry with Patrick Jamieson, University of Glasgow PhD scholar.
Join us on Sunday 5 July, 2–3pm, for ‘A Jacobite By Name?’: Jacobitism in the Life and Work of Robert Burns, a fascinating talk delivered by Patrick Jamieson, PhD scholar at the University of Glasgow, exploring how ideas of identity, naming and political memory shaped Burns’s engagement with Jacobitism throughout his life and writing.
Using the theme of “naming” as a guide, the talk examines Burns’s own family history and the changing origins of the Burns name, tracing links to pro-Stuart sympathies stretching back to Aberdeenshire. It will also explore how Burns used names within his poetry and songs — drawing on historical figures and evocative place names as powerful symbols of patriotism, loyalty and a romanticised Scottish past.
The talk will consider the subtle and sometimes risky political landscape Burns navigated, including his strategic use of misnaming and ambiguity to avoid persecution during a period of political sensitivity. It will also reflect on Burns’s adoption of the title “The Bard” — not simply as a literary persona, but as a deliberate identity that positioned him as Scotland’s national poet and cultural voice.
This talk offers a compelling insight into the complex relationship between Robert Burns, Jacobitism and Scottish national identity.
Join us on Sunday 5 July, 2–3pm, for ‘A Jacobite By Name?’: Jacobitism in the Life and Work of Robert Burns, a fascinating talk delivered by Patrick Jamieson, PhD scholar at the University of Glasgow, exploring how ideas of identity, naming and political memory shaped Burns’s engagement with Jacobitism throughout his life and writing.
Using the theme of “naming” as a guide, the talk examines Burns’s own family history and the changing origins of the Burns name, tracing links to pro-Stuart sympathies stretching back to Aberdeenshire. It will also explore how Burns used names within his poetry and songs — drawing on historical figures and evocative place names as powerful symbols of patriotism, loyalty and a romanticised Scottish past.
The talk will consider the subtle and sometimes risky political landscape Burns navigated, including his strategic use of misnaming and ambiguity to avoid persecution during a period of political sensitivity. It will also reflect on Burns’s adoption of the title “The Bard” — not simply as a literary persona, but as a deliberate identity that positioned him as Scotland’s national poet and cultural voice.
This talk offers a compelling insight into the complex relationship between Robert Burns, Jacobitism and Scottish national identity.
Advertisement
Where is it happening?
Robert Burns Ellisland Museum and Farm, Holywood Road,Dumfries, United Kingdom
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.
Host or PublisherRobert Burns Ellisland Museum and Farm
