James Hogg (1770-1835)known as the "Shepherd of Ettrick" was a self-taught writer from the Scottish Lowlands. His poetry and prose were appreciated to some extent in his lifetime, but he was
relegated to the sub-group of "rustic poet" and not fully accepted as a literary figure until the mid-twentieth century. Walker (English, Whitman College, USA) and Nelson (English, Trinity
Western University, Canada) have selected essays that emphasize the variety of Hogg's literary output. Articles place him within a broadened view of the Romantic movement as more than an upper
class phenomenon. His Scottish roots are also examined, including his self-proclaimed role as the heir of Robert Burns. The variety of the genre in which he worked is considered by several
contributors as is his reception in America, where his working-class origin was not the obstacle it was in Britain. Along with an upcoming edition of his works, this study should help to
restore Hogg to an eminent place among writers of the Romantic period. Annotation 穢2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
