In this enchanting episode of Stories of Scotland, your hosts Annie and Jenny embark on a mystical journey through the life and legends of Michael Scot, a medieval figure shrouded in the allure of wizardry. Unlike the American sitcom character, this Michael Scot stands out as a figure of Scottish folklore, known for his reputed magical powers and scholarly pursuits. Jenny brings out some amazing folklore from shipwrecked sailors, mermaids, snakes of wisdom, deals with the devil, and some very mischievous imps. We explore how his real academic achievements in astronomy, mathematics, and languages got intertwined with tales of wizardry, reflecting the medieval mindset.

Independently made in the Highlands, Stories of Scotland is gratefully funded through listener support on Patreon. www.patreon.com/storiesofscotland

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Join Annie and Jenny on an oinking odyssey as they explore the role of the humble swine in Scottish folklore. We dive snout-first into discovering the folklore of the first boar in Scotland, some curious stories of how communities may or may not divide up their pigs, and some baffling bank robberies. We find some of the strangest stories featuring pigs for you, dear listeners. Prepare for plenty of porcine puns!

Content warning: This episode contains mentions of decapitation, death, and bodies in a folklore context.

Independently made in the Highlands, Stories of Scotland is gratefully funded through listener support on Patreon. www.patreon.com/storiesofscotland

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jenny and Annie take listeners on an enlightening journey through Scotland's rich astronomical history and its contemporary role in space exploration. The episode begins with a reflection on the timeless human fascination with the night sky, highlighting how stars have guided people through history. We delve into Scottish contributions to astronomy honouring the people who helped the world to understand the stars. Enter a lot of men named James: James Gregory. James Short and James Clerk Maxwell. We celebrate the life and discoveries of Mary Somerville, a polymath who greatly advanced our understanding of the solar system. Somerville's work in translating complex mathematical theories into accessible language is highlighted, alongside her role in predicting the existence of Neptune and her advocacy for women's suffrage.

We also explore Scottish folklore related to the stars, especially that of the Far North of Scotland. We look at how ancient Scots used celestial phenomena to predict weather and navigate the seas. The episode emphasizes the deep-rooted connection between Scottish culture and the night sky.

From Spaceports to satellites, what is Scotland’s future in the stars?

Independently made in the Highlands, Stories of Scotland is gratefully funded through listener support on Patreon. www.patreon.com/storiesofscotland

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

being buried alive, from the founding of St Columba’s Iona Abbey to the spooky sinister Lady with the Ring lore.

We consider whether horses in the attic are truly the best possible way to tell if you are being haunted. This episode ties Scottish legends of being buried alive to European traditions and even goes all the way to America.

Is Taphophobia an irrational fear, or something that can help us understand wider ideas about the human experience, life and death? Listen for top tips on how to survive your burial.

Independently made in the Highlands, Stories of Scotland is gratefully funded through listener support on Patreon. www.patreon.com/storiesofscotland.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.