The Andrew Lang Library
Fiction & Audio Drama
About
Welcome, dear reader and listener, to The Andrew Lang Library, where the old tales live again. Here are gathered the enchanted histories of princes and maidens, of dragons, giants, perilous quests, and kingdoms beyond the edge of map and memory. In each episode, a book is opened, and its wonders are read aloud anew, that the curious may wander once more in the fair country of story.
Episodes
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 24 - Chapterrles I, part 2
This episode details the conflict between the Covenanters and King Charles I over religious demands, highlighting Scotland's turbulent path of political and religious strife.
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 24 - Chapterrles I, part 1
Chapter 24 of "A Short History of Scotland" covers the beginning of Charles I's reign, detailing the significant religious conflict and resistance in Scotland due to the imposition of bishops and an Anglican liturgy, which fostered widespr…
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 24 - Chapterrles I, part 3
Chapter 24 of 'A Short History of Scotland' details the intricate political and religious conflicts among Scottish nobles and Covenanters, marked by shifting alliances and accusations as war looms.
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 23 - The Gowrie Conspiracy, part 1
This episode covers King James I's efforts to manage the Kirk's power amidst noble opposition and the Gowrie conspiracy. It details the political intrigue, religious strife, and royal actions during a significant period in Scottish history.
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 22 - Reign of James I, part 3
This episode details the complexities of King James I's reign in Scotland, covering his management of church lands, noble rebellions, and religious conflicts, while also addressing external threats and internal plots.
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 23 - The Gowrie Conspiracy, part 2
Chapter 23 of The Andrew Lang Library covers the Gowrie Conspiracy, part 2. It details King James's accession to the English throne and his rule in Scotland through a Privy Council, addressing clan feuds, religious tensions, and church ref…
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 22 - Reign of James I, part 2
This episode covers the second part of the Reign of James I in Scotland, detailing his struggles with religious factions, noble conspiracies, and diplomacy as he sought to assert authority against Presbyterian and Catholic opposition.
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 21 - Minority of James I
Chapter 21 of A Short History of Scotland details the complex political landscape during the minority of James VI, marked by intrigue, factional conflict, imprisonments, and religious tensions.
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 22 - Reign of James I, part 1
This episode covers the early reign of James I of Scotland during his regency. It details the struggles with Scottish nobles and clergy, factional plots, ecclesiastical strife, and the challenges posed by presbyterian preachers.
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 19 - The Great Pillage, part 2
This episode details the austere framework of the Scottish Reformation, highlighting the Kirk's discipline and the ministers' spiritual authority. It also examines Mary Stuart's navigation of the intricate political landscape between Scotl…
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 20 - Mary in Scotland, part 1
This episode covers Mary Stuart's early reign in Scotland as she returns to a Protestant realm while maintaining her Catholic faith. It explores the political and religious conflicts, noble ambitions, and courtly maneuvering she faced.
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 20 - Mary in Scotland, part 2
This episode details the turbulent later reign of Mary, Queen of Scots, focusing on court intrigues, shifting alliances, and rebellions. It culminates in her captivity and the establishment of a regency for her son, James VI.
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 19 - The Great Pillage, part 1
Chapter 19, part 1 of 'A Short History of Scotland' details the conflict between the Catholic Regent and Protestant Congregation. It describes church plunder, shifting alliances, and the influence of French and English interests.
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 17 - Regency of Arran
Chapter 17 of The Andrew Lang Library's A Short History of Scotland covers the Regency of Arran, detailing the turbulent period following Cardinal Beaton's death, the siege of St Andrews Castle, the emergence of John Knox, and the conseque…
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 18 - Regency of Mary of Guise
This episode covers the Regency of Mary of Guise, detailing the escalating conflict between Protestant reformers, led by John Knox, and the Catholic establishment, influenced by France. The struggle for religious freedom intensifies amid p…
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 15 - James V and the Reformation
This episode covers the reign of James V of Scotland, detailing the nation's religious and political challenges as it balanced loyalty to Rome with the rise of Reformation ideas.
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 16 - The Minority of Mary Stuart
Chapter 16 of 'A Short History of Scotland' details the tumultuous minority of Mary Stuart, highlighting the religious strife, Cardinal Beaton's staunch defense of Scottish independence against English influence and domestic treachery, and…
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 14 - James IV, part 2
This episode covers the turbulent period in Scotland following the Battle of Flodden, focusing on the challenges faced during James V's minority. It delves into the internal strife, shifting alliances, and external influences that shaped t…
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 13 - James III
The episode covers the reign of James III. of Scotland, detailing the intricate alliances and betrayals among nobles and foreign powers, alongside internal factionalism and the king's interest in the arts.
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 12 - James II
This episode covers the tumultuous minority and reign of James II of Scotland, detailing the power struggles among nobles and the influential Douglas family. It highlights the king's efforts to consolidate power and promote education, incl…
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 14 - James IV, part 1
This episode covers the early reign of James IV, focusing on his efforts to build Scotland's naval strength, navigate political alliances, and address internal conflicts. It sets the stage for his eventual campaign against England.
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 9 - Decadence and Disasters - Reign of David II
Chapter 9 of The Andrew Lang Library covers the reign of David II of Scotland, a period of conflict, shifting loyalties, and the early development of the Scottish Parliament amidst English aggression and internal strife.
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 11 - James I
The episode covers James I of Scotland's return from captivity and his attempts to reform and control Scottish nobles through harsh justice and legal changes. His efforts to assert royal authority led to resentment, rebellion, and ultimate…
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 10 - Early Stuart Kings - Robert II
This episode covers the end of Robert II's reign and the beginning of Robert III's rule, detailing challenges like internal conflicts, clan disputes, and the imprisonment of James I. It also touches on the regency of Albany, foreign wars,…
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 6 - Malcolm and the Maiden
This episode details the reign of Malcolm the Maiden, including Celtic resistance and alliances, and follows through the reigns of Alexander II and Alexander III, noting the succession of the Maid of Norway.
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 8 - Bruce and the War of Independence
This episode details Robert Bruce's determined efforts to unite Scotland against English rule during the War of Independence, highlighting his key battles and the foundational steps towards Scottish sovereignty and parliament.
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 7 - Encroachments of Edward I - Wallace
This episode details Scotland's struggles under Edward I's asserted overlordship, the rise of William Wallace as a leader of resistance, and his eventual capture and execution.
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 5 - David I and His Times, part 1
The episode covers the reign of David I of Scotland, detailing the introduction of feudal law and Anglo-Norman culture. His policies influenced governance and nobility, integrating much of the kingdom into western European feudal customs,…
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 4 - Malcolm Canmore - The Norman Conquest
This episode covers Malcolm Canmore's reign in Scotland, detailing how his marriage to Margaret fostered closer ties with western Europe and Christianity, leading to religious reforms and the introduction of feudal customs despite Celtic o…
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 5 - David I and His Times, part 2
Chapter 5, part 2 of 'A Short History of Scotland' discusses the reign of David I. It highlights the growing influence of feudal and ecclesiastical systems, the development of burghs and royal justice, and the emergence of a middle class a…
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 3 - Early Wars of Races
Chapter 3 covers Scotland's early turbulent centuries, featuring inter-racial battles, the unification of Scots and Picts under Kenneth MacAlpine, and Viking incursions. The episode also details the succession of kings and the expansion of…
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 1 - Scotland and the Romans
Chapter 1 of "A Short History of Scotland" covers the Roman ventures into Scotland under Agricola, detailing encounters with native warriors skilled in chariot warfare and highlighting the early tribal life and Roman presence.
- A Short History of Scotland Chapter 2 - Chapteristianity - The Rival Kingdoms
Chapter 2 of The Andrew Lang Library traces the introduction of Christianity to Scotland by St Columba and his monastic work. It also describes the complex geography and people of early Scotland, with its rival kingdoms and diverse languag…
- Historical Mysteries Chapter 13 - The Mystery of the Kirks
This episode delves into the intricate history and enduring schisms of the Scottish Kirks, exploring their origins with John Knox and the long-standing conflicts over the relationship between Church and State.
- Historical Mysteries Chapter 14 - The End of Jeanne de la Motte
This episode details the imprisonment, escape, and mysterious death of Jeanne de la Motte, central figure in the Diamond Necklace affair. It examines the intrigue and conflicting accounts surrounding her life and reputation.
- Historical Mysteries Chapter 12 - Saint-Germain the Deathless
This episode of The Andrew Lang Library, titled "Historical Mysteries Chapter 12 - Saint-Germain the Deathless," explores the life and mysteries surrounding the Comte de Saint-Germain in 18th-century Europe. It touches upon his origins, we…
- Historical Mysteries Chapter 10 - Queen Oglethorpe
This episode explores the history of the Oglethorpe family, focusing on political intrigue, Jacobite connections, and the secrets of Westbrook Place. It examines themes of espionage, loyalty, and historical identity.
- Historical Mysteries Chapter 11 - The Chebalier D'éon
This episode details the life of the Chevalier d'Éon, covering his military career, secret diplomacy under Louis XV, and the enduring puzzle surrounding his adoption of female dress.
- Historical Mysteries Chapter 8 - The Strange Case of Daniel Dunglas Home
This episode explores the life of Daniel Dunglas Home, a Scottish-American medium who held séances for Victorian society. Accounts include floating tables and mysterious rappings, with phenomena that remain unexplained.
- Historical Mysteries Chapter 7 - The Gowrie Conspiracy
Chapter 7 of The Andrew Lang Library recounts the Gowrie Conspiracy, exploring the suspicious events, secret meetings, and deadly confrontation involving King James VI and the Ruthven brothers.
- Historical Mysteries Chapter 9 - The Case of Captain Green
This episode delves into the 18th-century case of Captain Thomas Green, focusing on the Scottish East India Company, maritime piracy, and political intrigue surrounding his trial.
- Historical Mysteries Chapter 4 - The Case of Allan Breck
This episode delves into the murder of the Red Fox in the Scottish Highlands, exploring the intertwined lives of Allan Breck and James Stewart of the Glens amidst clan rivalries and political intrigue.
- Historical Mysteries Chapter 5 - The Cardinal's Necklace
This episode details the story of Jeanne de Valois and Cardinal Rohan, involving royal intrigues and a scandalous diamond necklace in the courts of France. It examines themes of human folly, deceit, pride, and desperation within the contex…
- Historical Mysteries Chapter 6 - The Mystery of Kaspar Hauser: The Child of Europe
Chapter 6 of The Andrew Lang Library delves into the mystery of Kaspar Hauser, a youth who appeared in Nuremberg with an unknown past, exploring the theories and controversies surrounding him in 19th-century Germany.
- Historical Mysteries Chapter 1 - The Case of Elizabeth Canning
This episode delves into the curious case of Elizabeth Canning, an 18th-century governess. It examines the testimonies, trials, and conflicting evidence surrounding her mysterious disappearance, which divided English society.
- Historical Mysteries Chapter 3 - The Campden Mystery
Chapter 3 of The Andrew Lang Library's Historical Mysteries covers the Campden Mystery, detailing an aged steward's disappearance in a Cotswold village. The narrative involves confusing confessions and unusual events, suggesting hidden mot…
- Historical Mysteries Chapter 2 - The Murder of Escovedo
This episode delves into the 16th-century murder of Juan de Escovedo in Madrid, examining the political intrigues, secret affairs, and questions of conscience that ensnared Philip II's court.
- The Book of Dreams and Ghosts Chapter XIII
Chapter XIII of 'The Book of Dreams and Ghosts' recounts the tale of Thorgunna's arrival at an Icelandic farm, her death, and the ensuing hauntings. The narrative details Christian rites, legal proceedings, and a final exorcism that brings…
- The Book of Dreams and Ghosts Chapter XII
This episode covers the story of the spirit Glam terrorizing a farm in Iceland and his battle with the warrior Grettir, followed by a tale of a cursed family on the moors of Scotland linked to the Foul Fords.
- The Book of Dreams and Ghosts Chapter XIV
This episode of The Andrew Lang Library examines accounts of ghostly hands, mysterious black dogs, and family legends. It explores these phenomena through various stories to reflect on the relationship between fear and the inexplicable.