broadsword dance

Scottish dance

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Last updated

June 22, 2026

Quick Summary

The broadsword dance is a type of Scottish dance that involves performers dancing over or around swords. It is a folk dance with various forms, often incorporating themes of battle mime or defense against evil spirits.12

In one common form, dancers execute precise steps over and between crossed swords. The Scottish solo dance, Gillie Callum, is a well-known example of this type, first documented in the early 19th century. The Argyll broadsword dance features four performers who flourish their swords before laying them on the ground in a cross formation. Touching a sword during this dance traditionally requires stopping the performance. These dances may have ancient ritualistic origins, possibly related to fertility rites or military training.1

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sword dance
In the Scottish Argyll broadsword dance, the four performers flourish their swords before laying them on the ground, points touching, to form a cross. Possible ancient ritual meaning is suggested by the frequent belief that if a sword is touched, even lightly, the dance must be stopped.
Read More
In the Scottish Argyll broadsword dance, the four performers flourish their swords before laying them on the ground, points touching, to form a cross. Possible ancient ritual meaning is suggested by the frequent belief that if a sword is touched, even lightly, the dance must be stopped.
Read More