A Beer, A Bap and A Boffin:

Secrets and Spies in Scottish Literature

A discussion with Professor Penny Fielding FRSE

Scotland’s hidden histories and mysterious landscapes make it a prime site for clandestine activities.

Join Professor Penny Fielding FRSE as she talks about the history of the spy novel in Scotland, and what sets spy fiction apart from detective fiction. Why do fictional spies so often find their way to Scotland? And why are Scottish authors drawn to its landscapes, borderlands and history of espionage?

From Scottish literary greats like Walter Scott and John Buchan to contemporary authors, hear how writers have woven surveillance, secret intelligence and carefully crafted misdirection into their stories.

Presented in collaboration with The Royal Society of Edinburgh.

The Royal Society of Edinburgh recognises, supports, and mobilises expertise from across academia, business, and public service for the benefit of Scotland and the wider world. As Scotland’s National Academy, we use the combined knowledge of our 1,800-strong Fellowship to provide independent expert advice to policymakers and inspire the next generation of innovative thinkers.

Professor Penny Fielding FRSE, Grierson Professor of English, University of Edinburgh
Penny Fielding teaches English and Scottish Literature at the University of Edinburgh and is director of the project Scottish Writing in the Nineteenth Century. She has written several books on Scottish Literature and at the moment is working on a study of secrets. spies and espionage in fiction from Walter Scott to Muriel Spark.