Understanding the Difference Between Highlanders and the Highlander TV Series

The term "highlander" is often mentioned during discussions about Scottish culture and history. It can also refer to a 1986 action movie and a popular TV series. Amid this confusion, it's essential to clarify the distinctions between these concepts. In this article, we will explore the differences between highlanders, as in the people who live in the Scottish Highlands, and the Highlander TV series.

Highlanders: People of the Scottish Highlands

Highlanders, in a cultural and geographical sense, refer to people who live in the Scottish Highlands. This region is characterized by its rugged terrain, vibrant culture, and rich history. Here are some key aspects of Highland culture:

Clans and Family: There is a strong sense of clan identity among Highlanders. Each clan is typically associated with a specific tartan, or pattern of weaving, which serves as a symbol of their family or tribe. Tartans are an essential part of Highland culture and are often worn in traditional clothing, such as kilts. Martial Traditions: Highlanders are known for their martial traditions, including bagpipe music and famed sword fighting skills. These traditions have been preserved over centuries, making Highland culture highly distinctive. Geographical Divisions: Scotland can be divided into two main geographical regions: the Highlands and the Lowlands. Highlanders live in the northern and western parts of Scotland, which include mountainous regions and coastal areas. Historically, Highlanders have had distinct social and cultural practices compared to their Lowland counterparts.

The 1986 Film: Highlander

The 1986 film, "Highlander," directed by Russell Mulcahy, takes the concept of Highlanders from a cultural and historical perspective and fuses it with a futuristic, fictional narrative. In this movie, Highlander follows the story of Connor MacLeod, a 500-year-old immortal Scottish warrior possessed of supernatural abilities that activate during the "Quickening," a moment when two immortals must engage in a brutal, one-on-one fight to the death.

This film blends historical elements, such as the Scottish Highland inspired settings, with fantastical elements, presenting a unique take on the concept of immortality and the "rules" that govern these immortals.

The 2008 TV Series: Outlander

While "Highlander," the movie, was released in 1986, the TV series "Outlander" was first aired in 2014. It is a completely different entity, sharing only the name and a vague familial connection to the Highlander franchise. "Outlander" tells the story of Claire Randall, a World War II nurse who travels back in time to 18th century Scotland. The series showcases the rich cultural dynamics of the Scottish Highlands during the 1700s, blending historical fact with imaginative storytelling.

Interestingly, the term "Highlander" used in the TV series refers to a 1986 movie and not the people of the Scottish Highlands. This confusion is further highlighted by the fact that "Outlander" is not directly related to the historical context of Highlanders, but rather rehashes elements of the "Highlander" movie for a new generation.

Geographical and Cultural Differences Between Highlanders and Lowlanders

The difference between Highlanders and Lowlanders goes beyond geographical location. These terms also denote distinct cultural, social, and historical characteristics:

Geography: The line of demarcation between Highlanders and Lowlanders in Scotland is generally a line running from Glasgow heading northeast. This line marks the division between the highlands to the north and west and the lowlands to the south and east. Cultural Distinctions: Highlanders have their own specific cultural practices, such as the use of lochs (lakes), Highland games, and distinctive music like the bagpipes and traditional folk songs. In contrast, the Lowlands have their own unique traditions, including different types of cuisine, literature, and social customs. Historical Significance: The history of Highlanders is closely tied to the historical events and battles that have shaped Scotland's past. The Lowlanders, on the other hand, have a more complex and varied history influenced by neighboring countries and their own social structures.

Conclusion

While both Highlanders and the "Highlander" TV series are frequently associated with Scotland, the two terms have entirely different connotations. Highlanders refer to the people of the Scottish Highlands, known for their cultural traditions, clan-affiliated lifestyles, and historical significance. The "Highlander" movie and TV series, despite their names, are separate entities that draw from the rich history and cultural legacy of Scotland while taking imaginative and fictional liberties.