DEFINITION - Highland fling, national dance of Scotland.

A vigorous dance requiring delicate

balance and precision, it was probably originally a victory dance for a solo male dancer,
performed after battle. It is performed in 4/4 time and consists of a series of intricate steps
performed on one spot. Especially characteristic is a light step in which the dancer hops on one
foot while moving the other foot in front of and in back of the calf. The dance is regularly
performed in competition at the Highland Games held throughout Scotland.

COSTUME - The cap is called a Balmoral. A tight fitting coat or doublet is also
worn. It is also common for a tartan kilt (skirt) and hose to be worn. Special
dance shoes may also be worn.

CLASSIFICATION: WAR DANCE

PURPOSE: The dance is tailored after the Ghillie Challum Sword Dance after victory. It was
originally danced by males on a Targe (small round Shield with a center spike) which is said to be why
the dancers dance in place to celebrate their victories after battle.

HISTORY - The Highland Fling

This is the oldest of the traditional dances of Scotland.

According to tradition, the old kings and chiefs of

Scotland used the Highland Dances as a way of choosing
the best men for their retinue and men at arms. These
dances tested a warrior's strength, stamina, accuracy,
and agility.
The ancient warriors and clansmen performed this dance on the small round
shield (called a targe), which they carried into battle. Most Targes had a
sharp spike of steel of some 5 to 6 inches in length projecting from the
centre, so dancers learned early to move with great skill and dexterity - a
false or careless step could be more than a little painful.

The dance is said to have been inspired by the capers of the stag - the
dancers upraised arms representing the animal’s antlers. Danced vigorously
and exultantly, it is now highly stylised and calls for the greatest skill in
technique and exactness of timing.

It has become the classic solo dance at modern competitive dancing events,
and is often selected at competitions to decide who will be judged the best
Highland dancer of the day.
The word fling has entered our language to mean an especially careless and
happy time. So much for the idea of the "dour Scot". (dour = stern, harsh,
obstinate, unyielding).