From the Editor's Computer
I had the opportunity to dance a Highland Fling at my aunt’s recent 80th Birthday celebration in Elnora.
While the origins of the Highland Fling, and Sword Dance, have been lost in the mists of time, what is known is that they were danced by Scottish warriors to showcase their strength, agility, technique, and stamina. It truly was a test of their manhood - similar to the Greeks and the ancient Olympics. The best dancers were the best warriors.
In addition to the war trainings, the Highland Fling was probably a victory dance - danced in one spot upon a targe (small shield), with numerous steps (4 or 6 steps are danced today). The Sword Dance could have been danced prior to battle to foretell the outcome, or after the battle over enemy graves. Today it is danced over 2 crossed swords on the ground, however, back then it was danced over four swords stuck into the ground hilt first! As a true Scotsman didn’t wear anything under his kilt, he certainly had to be very agile to successfully dance a Sword Dance.
Beth
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