Maid Of Lorne

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

1- 8 1s turn RH and cast 1 place, 1s turn LH 1¾ times to end BtoB in middle facing 3rd corner (position) while 2s+3s chase clockwise ½ way
9-16 1s set to corners and dance ½ diagonal reel of 4 with 3rd corners into ½ reel of 3 on own sides (LSh to 4th corner position) to end facing 3rd corner (position)
17-24 1s repeat bars 9-16 but end facing each other (1L facing down to partner) 213
25-32 1s set and ¾ turn 2H to 2nd place opposite sides while 2s+3s dance ½ R&L, all dance Grand Chain ½ way. 213

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

Dance Information

Historically, the Maid of Lorne is sometimes linked to the daughter of John MacDougall, Lord of Lorne, during the Wars of Scottish Independence. The MacDougalls were allies of England and enemies of Robert the Bruce, Scotland's eventual king. A well-known legend suggests that the Maid of Lorne became romantically involved with one of Robert the Bruce's men, symbolising the tension between loyalty to family and personal relationships.

In literature and song, the Maid of Lorne is often depicted as a figure of beauty, resilience, and tragic love. These tales, while romanticised, highlight the struggles of loyalty and identity during a turbulent period in Scottish history.