In Our Time: Barbour's 'The Brus'

Episode Release Date: July 17, 2025
Host: Melvyn Bragg
Guests: Michael Brown (Professor of Scottish History, University of St Andrews), Steve Boardman (Professor of Medieval Scottish History, University of Edinburgh), Rhiannon Purdey (Professor of English and Older Scots, University of St Andrews)

Introduction

In this episode of In Our Time, Melvyn Bragg delves into John Barbour's "The Brus", the oldest surviving poem in Older Scots and a seminal work in Scottish literature. Through an engaging discussion with experts Michael Brown, Steve Boardman, and Rhiannon Purdey, the program explores the historical, literary, and cultural significance of this epic narrative that celebrates Robert the Bruce's quest for Scottish independence.

John Barbour and "The Brus"

John Barbour emerges as a pivotal figure in Scottish literary history. Active during the court of Robert II, Barbour's most renowned work, "The Brus", comprises approximately 13,000 lines of octosyllabic rhyming couplets. Barbour's career, as outlined by Rhiannon Purdey (02:42), includes his roles as precentor at Dunkeld Cathedral, Archdeacon of Aberdeen, and an auditor of the exchequer, indicating his significant involvement in both ecclesiastical and secular spheres.

Barbour's "The Brus" was composed during a period of relative peace in the 1370s under the reign of Robert II, offering a retrospective ode to Robert the Bruce's reign and his military triumphs, most notably the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314.

Historical Context: Scottish Independence and Bannockburn

Michael Brown provides a comprehensive background on Robert the Bruce (Robert I), highlighting his tumultuous rise to the Scottish throne in 1306 amidst the power struggles following the death of Alexander III in 1286. The ensuing conflict with the Balliol family and subsequent English intervention under Edward I set the stage for Bruce's eventual kingship and the fierce struggle for Scottish sovereignty.

The Battle of Bannockburn stands as a cornerstone event, where Bruce's forces decisively defeated the English in 1314, affirming Scotland's independence. Brown emphasizes Bannockburn's symbolic importance in Scottish national identity, noting, "It's the battle that proves that God is backing them. It's a judgment, and it shows Robert must therefore be the legitimate ruler of Scotland" (09:52).

Themes and Content of "The Brus"

Barbour's poem meticulously chronicles Bruce's ascent, battles, and eventual unification of Scotland. Michael Brown remarks on Barbour's selective storytelling, aiming to bolster Bruce's legitimacy and valor. The narrative juxtaposes Bruce's initial setbacks and exile with his triumphant return, culminating in the glorified account of Bannockburn.

Steve Boardman probes the poem's thematic focus, noting its blend of historical recounting and epic romance, intended to inspire and unify its Scottish audience. The poem serves both as historical documentation and heroic mythology, weaving personal valor with nationalistic fervor.

Language and Style: Older Scots

Rhiannon Purdey elucidates the linguistic landscape of "The Brus." Written in Alder Scots, an ancestor of modern Scots, the poem represents one of the earliest literary works in the language. Unlike the prevalent court French of the time, Barbour's choice to use Older Scots ("Ingus") was deliberate, aiming to resonate more directly with a Scottish audience.

"The Brus" employs octosyllabic couplets, a common medieval poetic form that facilitates oral recitation and memorization. Purdey highlights the poem's accessible language and rhythmic structure, making it both engaging and suitable for public performance.

Characters: Robert the Bruce and James Douglas

Robert the Bruce is portrayed as the quintessential chivalric hero—brave, cunning, and divinely favored. Barbour's narrative attributes Bruce with exceptional prowess in battle and unwavering dedication to Scottish freedom. Notably, during the Battle of Bannockburn, Bruce's strategic brilliance is celebrated through vivid descriptions of individual combat and tactical maneuvers.

James Douglas, Bruce's principal lieutenant, is another focal character. Michael Brown discusses Douglas's dual portrayal as both a loyal supporter and a figure who transgresses traditional chivalric norms. Barbour presents Douglas as a formidable warrior whose ruthless actions, such as the massacre of the English garrison, are justified within the context of reclaiming Scottish sovereignty.

Chivalry and Warfare: A Complex Interplay

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around chivalry's representation in "The Brus." Melvyn Bragg points out the poem's exploration of the balance between chivalric virtue and martial brutality. While Bruce exemplifies knightly honor and prowess, the narrative does not shy away from depicting morally ambiguous actions taken in the pursuit of national independence.

Quotes from the discussion illustrate this tension:

• Rhiannon Purdey explains, "Barbara is so interested in it. And he talks about people performing such great chivalry" (21:34).
• Melvyn Bragg adds, "Chivalry is a very wide portfolio in the 14th century... there's an emphasis on Robert's prowess, his ability to hit people very hard and chop their heads off" (14:50).

This duality reflects the broader medieval context, where chivalric ideals often coexisted with the harsh realities of warfare.

Military Strategy and Heroism

Barbour's detailed accounts of battles, including tactical maneuvers and individual acts of heroism, serve to immortalize Bruce's leadership qualities. Rhiannon Purdey recounts an illustrative scene: Bruce, underestimated and outnumbered, single-handedly defeats an English knight, Henry de Boon, emphasizing Bruce's invincibility and strategic mind (25:03).

Michael Brown notes, "Bruce turns Around. His men come and find Bruce afterwards, and they find him casually sitting on the bank of the river with 14 corpses littered about him" (25:19), showcasing the legendary prowess attributed to Bruce.

Legacy and Influence

The episode explores "The Brus'" enduring impact on Scottish national identity. Melvyn Bragg highlights how later generations, especially during the 15th and 16th centuries, revered Barbour's depiction of Bruce as a model king, fostering a sense of unity and national pride. The poem's legacy extends into modern Scottish literature, influencing writers like Sir Walter Scott, who echoed similar themes of heroism and national heritage.

Michael Brown emphasizes the poem's dual role as both a literary masterpiece and a historical artifact, though he cautions that "it's good poetry, it's just terrible history" (44:07), underscoring the blend of fact and artistic license.

Notable Quotes

• Rhiannon Purdey (12:22): "These are probably the most famous lines now from Barbara's Bruce. If anybody knows any lines from Barbara's Bruce, it's probably these because you will find them in modern anthologies."

• Barbour's "The Brus" Excerpt (38:27):

  "Freedom is a noble thing. Freedom gives man pleasure. Freedom makes you happy, it gives you solace. You can live at ease if you have freedom. And a noble heart particularly, can never have ease, can never be relaxed, can't ever be happy unless he has freedom."

• Melvyn Bragg (41:06): "It's the approach that seems to be most successful for the Scottish realm in the long run over the 14th and 15th centuries."

Conclusion

Barbour's "The Brus" stands as a cornerstone of Scottish literary and historical tradition, blending epic storytelling with nationalistic pride. Through meticulous scholarship and lively discussion, the In Our Time episode illuminates how this medieval poem not only chronicles Robert the Bruce's endeavors but also shapes the cultural consciousness of Scotland. The interplay of chivalric ideals, martial valor, and national identity within the poem underscores its enduring relevance and appeal.

For those intrigued by the fusion of history and literature, "The Brus" offers a compelling narrative that continues to inspire and resonate within Scottish heritage.

This summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions presented in the "Barbour's 'The Brus'" episode of In Our Time, providing a comprehensive overview for listeners and newcomers alike.