THIS CHAPTER EXAMINES THE multiple representation, evolution and opposition of masculine constructions in John Barbour's Bruce (c. 1375). The text displays multi-layered visions of masculinity, favouring those that are more flexible. The two main heroes, Robert Bruce and James Douglas, represent this kind of fluid masculinity, able to adapt to the ever-changing social and political circumstances of late medieval Scotland. Their masculinity contrasts with the negative masculine models of Edward I, King of England, and Robert's brother, Edward, whose inability to evolve as a man and knight causes his downfall. After a brief historical contextualisation, the chapter will argue that the absence of proper leaders, including Robert Bruce himself, to rule the country, propitiates Edward I's successful invasion of Scotland. Second, it will examine the evolution of Robert I and James Douglas as they become the ideal king and knight respectively to liberate Scotland. Third, the lack of interactions with women will be discussed. Finally, the end of the narrative will be assessed as a perfect culmination of a sovereign's life, securing progeny, peace and a profoundly Christian departure from this world.

CONTEXT

In the forty years previous to the composition of John Barbour's Bruce, the hostilities of the First War of Independence (1296–1328) between England and Scotland had been renewed, leading to several English victories under the rule of Edward III. David II of Scotland had been captured at the Battle of Neville's Cross (1346), although he was released in 1357, bringing the Second War of Independence to an end. Robert I's military success in the first quarter of the fourteenth century was a distant memory. At a time of political instability within the realm itself, King Robert II (1316–90), who had succeeded David in 1371 but had difficulties fully establishing his authority, commissioned Barbour, archdeacon of Aberdeen, to write a romance based on the life and deeds of Robert Bruce, the king's grandfather. The verse romance was finished around 1375. Robert II endeavoured to underpin his political authority, using the example of Bruce and his heroic comrades at arms as a model of the ideal relationship between a monarch and his nobles.