Lectures of Regent Robert Ranken (fl. 1630)

The material is composed of: dictates at Edinburgh University, 1636-1637; and, dictates 1632-1634.

Robert Ranken or Rankin had studied at Cambridge University and was elected as Regent (Professor) of Philosophy at Edinburgh University in 1625. He was installed in November 1625. In the 1630s when a new prayer book and liturgy was introduced to the Church of Scotland, modelled on that of the Church of England, the National Covenant was revived against episcopacy and for the restoration of the Presbyterian model. Ranken however was one of the few professors within the University who did not bind himself to the Covenant, and he soon incurred the displeasure of the Covenanters. In September1638 Robert Ranken was forced to resign his Chair.

Generally open for consultation to bona fide researchers, but please contact repository for details in advance.

Lang dictates, acquired November 1974, Accession no. E74.32.

The biographical/administrative history was compiled using the following material: (1) Dalzel, Andrew. History of the University of Edinburgh from its foundation. Vol.2. History. Edinburgh: Edmonston and Douglas, 1862.

Compiled by Graeme D Eddie, Edinburgh University Library, Special Collections Division.

Important finding aids generally are: the alphabetical Index to Manuscripts held at Edinburgh University Library, Special Collections and Archives, consisting of typed slips in sheaf binders and to which additions were made until 1987; and the Index to Accessions Since 1987.

Check the local Indexes for details of any additions.

The local Indexes show another reference to Ranken related material (check the Indexes for more details): his admission to the use of Edinburgh University Library, a signature, 12 December 1636, at Da.2.1, p.4.