Cultural Markers: Tartan




I consider myself to be of Scottish culture, since I was born in Scotland and lived there for 11 years, as well as the majority of my family is Scottish. Within this culture, I am part of different communities, such as the McEwan family, and Mill o' Forest Primary School. Of which both places have their own tartan. I feel like tartan is misunderstood in the way that most people consider it to be simply Scottish. However, this is not the case. Tartan represents many different communities within the Scottish culture. Yes, tartan is typically a Scottish symbol, but there are many many different types of tartan. For example, my old primary school had their own tartan, and the McEwan family has their own tartan. (Except the 'McEwan tartan' is actually 'MacEwan tartan', however this is the same thing.) Tartan is worn to occasions such as weddings (kilts), and the school tartan is obviously worn on school days (kilts or ties). There is a different tartan for most Scottish originated families and schools, etc. Whether it be a kilt or a tartan tie or bow, as long as it is worn it is clear a person is part of a particular Scottish community. Tartan is important to myself and my culture because wearing it proves you are proud to be part of your culture. It makes a culture/community unique. The best part about tartan, though, is that no matter what colour, pattern, or form it is in, it is famously known to be Scottish whether somebody from another country knows it's meaning, or not.

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