EnergyFromTheEdge
A conference about sustainable energy, large-scale resource development in remote communities, and more ...
12-14 SEPTEMBER 2007 Shetland Islands
People and Culture
Shetland’s position as a crossroads of the North Atlantic means that the islands have been accustomed to welcoming new people over the centuries.
Shetland only became part of Scotland in 1469 as part of a Danish princess’ dowry and the islands have their own unique cultural background. Many of the Shetland place names are of Norse origin and Viking festivals are celebrated throughout the isles.
In fact, 200 years after the islands were mortgaged to Scotland by the Danish-Norwegian King, Shetlanders were still speaking Norn – the local dialect of Old Norse. However, as more and more Scottish families emigrated to Shetland in the 16th, 17th and 18th Centuries, Shetland’s dialect became more Scots but continued to include thousands of Norwegian words. The Shetland dialect is alive and well today and is still in daily use.
Shetland’s Scandinavian past has been overlaid with episodes of close association with Scottish settlers, German traders, Dutch fishermen and in more recent times, by the oil industry. People who understand island life and the maritime climate find that it is not difficult to become part of the community.
The Shetlanders of today are certainly forward thinking and willing to embrace modern technology to ensure that their islands thrive in the 21st century. However, there is no doubting the fact that islanders are proud of the characteristics that make them Shetlanders and have a strong commitment to their cultural traditions. Music, dance, traditional crafts, festivals and story telling all play an important part in the life of Shetlanders today.