Robert Jamieson (1780 – 1844) was a Scottish lawyer, antiquarian, and collector of ballads. He is primarily remembered for his collection Popular Ballads and Songs, from Tradition, Manuscripts, and Scarce Editions; with Translations of Similar Pieces from the Ancient Danish Language; and a Few Originals by the Editor (1806).
Born in Morayshire, he was educated at Marischal College, Aberdeen, and became a writer to the Signet in Edinburgh. While practicing law, Jamieson developed a strong interest in Scottish folklore and balladry. He dedicated considerable time and effort to collecting ballads from oral tradition, as well as examining manuscript sources.
Jamieson's Popular Ballads and Songs is notable for its inclusion of Danish ballads alongside Scottish ones, reflecting his interest in comparative folklore. He collaborated with Sir Walter Scott on the Minstrelsy of the Scottish Border, contributing several important ballads and notes. However, their relationship later soured due to disagreements over editorial practices and the attribution of certain ballad texts.
Despite this falling out, Jamieson remained a respected figure in Scottish literary circles. He corresponded with numerous scholars and contributed articles to various publications. His collection of ballads and his contributions to the study of Scottish folklore cemented his reputation as an important early figure in the field of ballad scholarship. He is buried in Warriston Cemetery, Edinburgh.