Declaration of Arbroath is given a makeover
The Declaration of Arbroath is widely regarded as the most important document in the history of Scotland. Now it is set to be turned into a lavish “coffee table-style” book to mark its 700th anniversary. The Declaration of Arbroath was signed by eight earls and 31 barons at Arbroath Abbey in 1320. It was sent to the Pope asking him to recognise Scottish independence and acknowledge Robert the Bruce as the country’s lawful king. An Edinburgh-based artist, illustrator and writer plans to “bring to life” the famous letter which states: “... for, as long as but a hundred of us remain alive, never will we on any conditions be brought under English rule”. Andrew Barr said his new version would include a full English translation of the document, believed to be the inspiration for the American Declaration of Independence, as part of a “21st-Century illuminated manuscript”. The illustrated version will explore how it came to be written during Scotland’s wars of independence with England and how it has been perceived during different historical eras. Mr Barr said it would also “examine ideas of community and people power, and ask what freedom means in today’s world”.