This monograph is about how the Scots language is discursively constructed, both from ‘above’ (through texts such as educational policies, debates in parliament and official websites) and from ‘below’ (in focus group discussions among Scottish people). It uses the interdisciplinary discourse-historical approach to critical discourse analysis to examine what discursive strategies are used in different texts, and also to investigate salient features of context. This allows a broader discussion of the role of this language in Scotland, and how different ways of constructing a language can percolate through society, appearing in both important, elite texts and discussions among ordinary people. It thus contributes to the body of knowledge about contemporary Scots, but also expands the range of possible applications for critical discourse analysis approaches.

Guofeng Wang, Zhejiang University, Discourse Studies Vol. 17:6 (2015):
Unger’s monograph is much more than a fascinating analysis of the Scots language; it also provides an exemplary research model that scholars will do well to emulate in their future work. The discourse-historical approach proves itself to be an effective tool for analyzing a complex social phenomenon, and by conducting CDA in the relevant historical contexts, new and deeper insights are made possible. Unger’s careful selection of sample texts and his thoughtful design of focus groups can be highly recommended as a model for learning and teaching this discourse analysis methodology. All in all, this monograph is both an exceptional study of Scottish culture from a linguistic perspective and a valuable resource for students and scholars of CDA.