Conclusion, Additional Resources, and References

Around the world, there have been many challenges and changes that have happened, and many traditional practices have vanished, yet the traditional Highland Games persist. There is a very strong and deep connection to the Scottish culture, which serves as a large reason for why it continues. There also appears to be a cathartic release for those involved. Participants, who are often descendants of clans that participated in the game decades and centuries ago, engage in the competition not only for entertainment but also as a connection to their ancestral roots. The Highland Games are not only echoes of the past but also a living expression of a culture that refuses to be forgotten and ignored. If you are interested in learning more about the Traditional Highland Games, here are some additional resources -

References

Sims, Martha, and Martine Stephens. Living Folklore: An Introduction to the Study of People and Their Traditions. 2nd Edition ed., Logan: Utah State University Press, 2011. Muse.jhu.edu/book/10576

Gennep, Arnold V. 1960. The Rites of Passage. London: Routledge - Taylor & Francis Group. https://books.google.ca/books?id=kJpkBH7mB7oC&printsec=copyright&hl=en#v=onepage&q&f=false

Brewster, Marjory, Joanne Connell, and Stephen J. Page. “The Scottish Highland Games: Evolution, Development and Role as a Community Event.” Current issues in tourism 12, no. 3 (2009): 271–293

Dawn, Karalee. Today we are all Scottish: Performances of Self, Community, and Nation at Highland Games and Gatherings. Doctor of Philosophy dissertation. University of Maryland. 2014

Freeman-Gibb, Celine. Women’s Involvement in Highland Games Heavy Events: A Hope and Strengths Perspective. Master of Human Kinetics dissertation. University of Windsor. 2016.

Kirkwood, Jemima. “Ultimate Guide to Scotland’s Highland Games.” The ultimate guide to the Highland Games: events, sports & traditions, May 27, 2022. https://www.cottages-and-castles.co.uk/guides/ultimate-guide-highland-games.

Gross, Joan. 2017. “Performance” Oregon State University, December 18th, 2017.

Gross, Joan. 2017. “Key Terms” Oregon State University, December 18th, 2017.

Nichol, Melanie. 2017. “Ritual - Part 1” Oregon State University, December 18th, 2017