Highways and Byways in the Border

Highways and Byways in the Border explores the nuanced narratives and landscapes of the Border region through a diverse array of literary forms. Spanning folklore, historical accounts, and vivid descriptive prose, this collection delves into the interplay between geography and identity, unearthed through both mythical lore and palpable reality. The anthology deftly highlights the fluid boundaries of Scottish and English cultural influences, intertwining tales of legendary border reivers with poignant reflections on the region's storied past. Standout pieces detail the evocative battlefields and ancient pathways, rendering the land itself as a tapestry of collective memory and vibrant legend. Curated by the esteemed Andrew Lang and John Lang, the anthology taps into their profound understanding of the Border's cultural tapestry. With contributions that echo the richness of Victorian literary tradition, the collection is a testament to the Lang brothers' dedication to preserving and elucidating the stories of a land steeped in continuous transformation. Their editorial choices align with the late 19th century's fascination with regionalism and historical depth, crafting a narrative that recognizes the profound impact of the Border's unique history on British literature and identity. Highways and Byways in the Border offers readers an immersive experience in exploring the complex narratives of a pivotal landscape. This anthology provides a scholarly and evocative journey through time and space, inviting readers to appreciate the multifaceted interplay of history, myth, and culture. Whether for educational purposes or a passion for literary history, readers are encouraged to traverse the pages and partake in the thoughtful dialogue fostered by such an extensive gathering of perspectives on this borderland's enduring legacy.

Andrew Lang (1844-1912) was a versatile Scottish scholar renowned for his work as a poet, novelist, literary critic, and contributor to anthropology. He now is best recognized for his role as a collector and publisher of folk and fairy tales. A prolific author, Lang's extensive bibliography includes works ranging from his famous 'Fairy Books' series to tomes on mythology, history, and anthropology. 'Highways and Byways in the Border,' published in 1913 after his death, illustrates Lang's enchantment with the Scottish borders, rich with historical anecdotes and local traditions, reflecting his deep appreciation for folklore and storytelling. He was among the first to take a serious approach to the study of myth and folklore; his 'Custom and Myth' (1884) and 'Myth, Ritual, and Religion' (1887) demonstrate this interest. Lang's literary style often blends a scrupulous attention to detail, a characteristic of his academic background, with a whimsical narrative voice that enlivens his storytelling. His work laid the groundwork for future folklorists and cultural historians, combining rigorous scholarship with accessible writing, broadening interest in cultural mythology and fairy tales. His collaboration with illustrators such as H. J. Ford for the 'Fairy Books' left a lasting visual legacy accompanying his literary contributions. Lang was also a gifted polyglot, translating works from ancient Greek and other languages into English, underscoring his facility with language and his broad scholarly reach.