Someone we know recently returned from a trip to Scotland. They seemed to have a good time and talked a lot about the food and things they learned about Scotland. One thing that seemed to escape them was the national animal of Scotland. It turns out that a bit of trivia I learned about Scotland was from Emily, and her fascination with Unicorns. I’m pretty sure that unicorns don’t actually exist, but nonetheless the national animal of Scotland is the Unicorn!
I’m not sure how many other, if any, countries have mythical creatures as a national symbol. Unicorns have been linked to Scotland for centuries. While the animal may be mythological, it was probably chosen for the ideals it represents. In Celtic mythology the unicorn was symbol of purity and innocence — as well as masculinity and power. Tales of dominance and chivalry associated with the unicorn are prevalent in Scottish literature.
The unicorn was first used on the Scottish royal coat of arms by William I in the 12th century. In the 15th century, when King James III was in power, gold coins appeared with the unicorn on them. When Scotland and England unified under the reign of James VI of Scotland in 1603, the Scottish Royal Arms had two unicorns supporting a shield. When James VI became James I of England and Ireland, he replaced the unicorn on the left of the Shield with the National animal of England (the lion) to show that the countries were indeed united.
The unicorn representing Scotland in the coat of arms is always depicted bounded by a golden chain, which is often seen passing around its neck and wrapping all around its body. The unicorn was believed to be the strongest of all animals — wild and untamed, and that it could only be humbled by a virgin maiden. One story that I’ve heard is that the unicorn’s entrapment symbolizes the power of the Scottish kings — they were strong enough to tame even a unicorn.
Benjamin Franklin suggested that America’s national animal should be the turkey. Thinking about the way things are today, maybe a turkey might be appropriate — but — I think the choice of our national animal (the Bison) was a good one, and pretty cool…. but it’s hard to compete with a unicorn.
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