Scots and the Netherlands as Seen through Alba Amicorum, 1540s–1720s

ABSTRACT The study of alba amicorum is still a relatively obscure yet growing pursuit in the Anglophone world. By browsing through these autograph albums, it is possible to unlock the names of Scots so long sunk into oblivion or simply reveal additional details and facets to the personality of those whose names have come down the centuries. Additionally, vriendenboeken weave networks of relations between Scots and Europeans expanding our understanding of these mobile and endeavouring individuals. These volumes are important as they help the historian get a clearer picture and add to the better knowledge of the peregrinatio scotica in particular vis-à-vis the Netherlands. The genre of alba amicorum fully deserves a greater consideration from the Scottish, and indeed British, historian. They offer a rounder picture of the contributors’ identities and give a voice to Scottish women which is independent from that of their husbands.