Scottish Country Dancing Dictionary

Muckle Mirth And Glee

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

MUCKLE MIRTH AND GLEE (S4x32) 4C Set Barry Skelton Brig O' Balgownie

1- 8 1s and 4s cross RH and cast in 1 place (2s and 3s step down/up 3-4); 1s+4s dance RH across once round, retain hands, join hands with nearest corner (all facing clockwise)
9-16 All dance RH across; all drop hands, pull back RSh and dance LH across, 2s and 3s back to place, 1s and 4s in centre facing same corner person
17-24 All dance interlocking diagonal reels of 4 passing corner RSh to start and dancing ½ LH across in middle. 1s and 4s remain in centre facing diagonally in
25-32 1s and 4s set, Petronella turn once place to right; set facing diagonally in and Petronella turn to own side. 2413

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


Dance Information

The word "muckle" is a Scots and Northern English dialect term meaning "large" or "a large amount."

It is often used in phrases such as "muckle hoose" (big house) or "muckle amount" (a large quantity).

The term is not still commonly used in standard English but remains prevalent in certain regional dialects.

The phrase "muckle mirth and glee" combines several words to convey a vivid image:

"Muckle" means "large" or "a great deal" in Scots and Northern English dialect.
"Mirth" means amusement, especially as expressed in laughter.
"Glee" means great delight, often manifested by laughter or joy.

So, "muckle mirth and glee" means a large amount of amusement and joy, suggesting a scene filled with great happiness and laughter.



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