YOUR VIEWS: Are the Highland Games traditional enough?
Are the Highland Games traditional enough?
So-called Highland Games in the modern era are NOT traditional!
Nowadays we can search online for authentic research done by real experts who have studied Scots Gaelic culture in the departments of Celtic studies in Scottish universities. During the 18th century, for instance, many old traditions were terminated. Old leaders - clan chiefs and tacksmen (land holders) - who survived looked for ways to retain their social status and recruitment of former clansmen into Highland regiments proved rewarding.
The Highland Games as we know them were devised by these Anglophone leaders who wished to imbue Highland culture with the values of the British Empire and emphasise the athletic prowess and military potential of Highland men.
The contrived and orchestrated nature of Highland Games, and their neglect of the most important aspects of Highland culture - indigenous practices of literature, song, and music - has long been obvious to native Highlanders.
The choice of activities demonstrates who was in charge and what their agenda was. Although initially a few Highland Games offered support for authentic forms of Gaelic cultural expression and a variety of physical recreations, the overseers soon narrowed the choice of activities to those that that would appeal to non-native audiences.
Ewan Macintyre, Inverness
Many will return to a different SNP
A former SNP activist since 2000, I gave up membership several years ago because of Nicola Sturgeon and background branch actions.
I said wholeheartedly to a relative of Kate Forbes recently that if she had stuck to her leadership bid the results might have been better. What a great example of Christian values giving support to Drew Hendry when he wouldn't do the same for her.
But the public have spoken, that's democracy and I hope a lesson learned by all.
Keep your eyes and heart open and focused Kate Forbes - your turn will come to lead and many will return to a different SNP.
Florence Nairne, Drumnadrochit
Do GPs take concerns seriously?
It’s a great sentiment (Middle-aged men shouldn’t be afraid to seek help, column by NHS Highland’s Dr Tim Allison, The Inverness Courier, July 5) but there is a reluctance with GPs to engage properly.
Some have a tendency not to take concerns seriously or act on the requests for treatment the patient feels are pertinent.
When challenged, they respond poorly.
This locks men out of further engagement with healthcare. If a patient requests a treatment they should, reasonably, be able to access that.
David McAspurn, Kilmuir
Vandals halt e-bike scheme
Simple solution [would be to] install cameras high up at every biking station. I'm surprised this is not in place already in view of the cost of each bike. Or maybe it is?Keith Mackenzie
Typical that a minority of imbecilic individuals spoil a great scheme for the majority.
These bikes should have identification codes or photos and ID taken of the individuals hiring and should the bike not be returned or is damaged then compensation should be sought to cover it.
No consequences as usual and the idiots get off scot free.
Name and address supplied
Football flag’s travel meant a lot
A lovely sentimental story of our brother Michael Diamond (Flag’s 2700-mile trip to Euro 24 and back in memory of club diehard, The Inverness Courier, July 2).
Thank you so much as it means a lot to me and my sister Beverley. Michael treasured that flag and was always so proud to transport it to every important game.
I have lived in the States for 46 years and I love to keep up with all the local news.
Gillian MacKenzie, San Angelo, Texas
