Madge Wildfire's Strathspey (RSCDS Book 9)

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

1- 8 1s+2s+3s circle 6H round and back
9-16 1s+2s+3s cross passing RSh and cross back passing RSh (some editions have cross RH and cross back RH)
17-20 1s+2s+3s turn 2H moving down to face 1st corners while 2s turn 2H and cast up to 1st place and 3s turn 2H to 3rd place
21-24 1s set to 1st corner and set to 2nd corner
25-32 1s dance reels of 3 on opposite sides, 1s giving RSh to 2nd corners and 1s cross RH back to own sides

(MINICRIB. Dance crib compiled by Charles Upton, Deeside Caledonian Society, and his successors)

Keith Rose's Crib Diagram

Madge Wildfire's Strathspey (RSCDS Book 9) - Full Size And Key To Symbols

Dance Instruction Videos

Dance Information

This is the version as originally published by the RSCDS, in book 9, in 1934.

Sir Walter Scott's The Heart of Midlothian was first published in 1818 as part of the Tales of My Landlord series. The series was framed as being authored by Jedediah Cleishbotham, a fictional schoolmaster and parish clerk from the imaginary town of Gandercleugh. Scott used this pseudonym to maintain anonymity, as many of his novels were initially published without his name.

The novel was published by Archibald Constable and Co., a prominent Edinburgh publishing house, with distribution in London handled by Longman, Hurst, Rees, Orme, and Brown. Released in four volumes, the book was an instant success and solidified Scott's status as one of the foremost novelists of his era.

Set in early 18th-century Scotland, The Heart of Midlothian takes its title from the Old Tolbooth prison in Edinburgh, a significant landmark in Scottish history that serves as a symbol within the novel. The narrative explores profound themes such as justice, morality, and societal change, centring on Effie Deans' trial and Jeanie Deans' courageous journey to seek her sister's pardon.

The novel was widely praised for its vivid characterisation, historical authenticity, and gripping storytelling. It remains one of Scott's most celebrated works and a cornerstone of Scottish literary heritage.

Madge Wildfire, born Margaret Murdockson, is a deeply tragic and multifaceted character. Once a vibrant and beautiful young woman, she descends into madness after a life marred by scandal and hardship. Her erratic behaviour and mental instability make her a memorable presence in the story, providing both moments of dark humour and poignant reminders of lost innocence.

In the narrative, Madge plays a critical role by aiding Jeanie Deans during her perilous journey to London. Jeanie undertakes this mission to secure a royal pardon for her sister Effie, wrongfully accused of child murder. Madge's unpredictable actions and seemingly incoherent speech offer vital insights into her troubled past and the harsh realities of the world she inhabits. Despite her mental state, Madge proves to be an unlikely but invaluable companion to Jeanie.

Madge's relationship with her mother, Margaret Murdockson (also called Dame Murdockson), is integral to her story. Her mother is portrayed as a cruel and manipulative woman engaged in criminal acts, including child abduction. This toxic relationship profoundly impacts Madge, contributing to her mental decline and tragic destiny. Her connection to Effie Deans' trial is also significant, as her mother's crimes intersect with the mystery of Effie's missing child.

Madge is vividly depicted as a wanderer who frequently sings ballads that mirror her inner turmoil and the sorrowful events of her life. Her madness elicits both pity and reflection on the societal conditions that shaped her fate. Ultimately, her life ends in tragedy when she is killed by a mob, a brutal conclusion that underscores the cruelty and lack of empathy in her world.

Madge Wildfire serves as a powerful lens through which Sir Walter Scott examines themes of social injustice, mental illness, and morality. Her interwoven story with Jeanie and Effie Deans adds emotional depth and complexity to The Heart of Midlothian, solidifying her as one of the novel's most unforgettable characters.

This mosaic commemorates the site of the Old Tolbooth, a 15th-century structure demolished in 1817. The Old Tolbooth served as Edinburgh's administrative centre, a prison, and a venue for public executions. It is prominently featured in Sir Walter Scott's 1818 novel, The Heart of Midlothian.

The mosaic is named after the historical county of Midlothian of which Edinburgh was the county town.

The Heart Of Midlothian Mosaic, Edinburgh, Scotland

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