Shetland Culture
Traditional Crofthouse
Image by Kenny Gifford
Shetland's vibrant culture has been shaped by a combination of influences, incorporating elements from Scandinavia, Scotland, and from the many nationalities of fishermen and traders who have visited the islands over the centuries. Experiences taken home by seafaring Shetlanders have also been added to this mix.
Historical Legacy
Shetland became part of Scotland over 500 years ago (in 1469), but the legacy of the previous Scandinavian inhabitants can still be detected. Nordic influences are evident in place names, the Shetland dialect, certain folklore and customs, and, to an extent, traditional Shetland music .
The strength of this Scandinavian element has undeniably decreased over the past five centuries, as might be expected given the increasing influence of Scotland over this period and the corresponding erosion of political, legal and 'racial' unity with Norway. What is perhaps surprising is that Scottish culture has never really gained total dominance in Shetland. Certain aspects (language, for example) have become assimilated into, and have shaped, Shetland culture, but others - such as tartan, bagpipes, Gaelic, and the like - are not found in Shetland at all.
The result of all this is that Shetland can boast of a truly special cultural heritage which is significantly different from that found in the rest of Scotland. The dialect, traditional music, folklore, festivals and customs are all uniquely Shetlandic.
Spreading the Culture
In more recent times, some aspects of traditional Shetland life have become popular outside the islands: traditional Shetland knitwear has been much sought after for well over a century, and the profile of traditional Shetland music overseas is ever increasing.
