Symbols in Scottish Culture (Cultural Proof #2)

"Identify 10 symbols in the culture. Describe the symbol and write a sentence or two about its meaning and significance. Symbols may range from an actual object in the culture to the significance of facial expressions or the meaning of wearing one’s hair down, etc."

• Kilts:
• One of the most famous pieces of outerwear is the Scottish kilt. Their rise in popularity was due to it being used to make farming and fighting easier and to lessen sweat from these activities. Now, it signifies patriotism and loyalty to both family and country. 

• Thistles:
• Thistles are the national flower of Scotland and a point of pride for local businesses, and citizens. While no one truly knows the origin or reason as to why it became the national flower, the plant represents the people; its exterior is prickly but the flower is also quite humble and beautiful when in bloom, just like the residents.

• Bagpipes:



Bagpipes in Edinburgh (My photo)

• Another traditionally Scottish icon is the bagpipes. They originated as war instruments and signaled changes in battle. Their ability to be heard across great distances and over loud clamor made them useful in fights. Now, they signify the heritage of the nation and are used to represent and recall memories of clans fighting for independence from the encroaching British.  

• Heather: 



Purple Heather ("Heather Meaning and Symbolism")



• Despite thistles being the national flower of Scotland, heather is far more abundant. The flower means admiration and protection. A tradition in the country is to include a sprig of white heather in a bride's bouquet ('Heather Flower Meaning', FTD). The flower has become significant as an icon of the nation.

• Scottish Knot:



A traditional knot ("Celtic Trinity Knot")

• The Scottish knot, also known more generally as the Celtic knot, is seen across Scotland and Ireland due to the first widespread settlers, the Picts. While the knot is popularized in tourist shops now, it means 'long life' and the intertwining of mind, body, and spirit.

• Unicorn:
• The unicorn is the official national animal of Scotland. Legend holds that it is the only animal that can defeat the lion, which is the national animal of England. 

• Highland Cow:



A Highland Cow in its field ("Funny animal faces")

• The breed of cow is symbolic of the hardy and tough Scots that have bred it. Highland cows are typically kept now as a symbol of pride in the country rather than serving as a milk or meat cow. 

• Tartan:
• The tartan, not to be confused with the kilt, is a pattern unique to each of clan and region of Scotland. Each pattern is used to symbolize a clan, region, or other political association. While the actual patterns themselves do not have specific means, plaid patterns are now popular icons of Scotland. 

Bibliography:

“Celtic Trinity Knot.” God Squad, 17 Mar. 2015, godsquad.me/2015/03/17/celtic-trinity-knot/.

“Heather Meaning and Symbolism.” FTD.com, 30 Aug. 2016, www.ftd.com/blog/share/heather-flower-meaning-and-symbolism.

joi, Posted by. “Ww-Funny-Animal-Faces-Cow.adapt.945.1 -.” Gifts & Flowers Delivery in Saudi, UAE, Jordan, Bahrain, Oman, www.joigifts.com/blog/23-insane-animal-facts-can-shock-people/ww-funny-animal-faces-cow-adapt-945-1/.