In Celtic mythology the unicorn was a symbol of purity and innocence, as well as masculinity and power. Tales of dominance and chivalry associated with the unicorn may exist why information technology was chosen every bit Scotland'south national animate being.

The unicorn in the history of Scotland

With Scotland being famed for its love for and long history of myths and legends, information technology is no surprise that a fabled creature such as the unicorn is Scotland's national animal. Unicorns have been linked to Scotland for centuries. While the animal is mythological, the ideals it represents are what make information technology a perfect fit as the national animate being for Scotland, and because like this proud animal – Scots would fight to remain unconquered.

The unicorn was offset used on the Scottish royal coat of artillery past William I in the 12th century. In the 15th century, when Male monarch James III was in power, gold coins even appeared with the unicorn on them. When Scotland and England unified under the reign of James VI of Scotland in 1603, the Scottish Regal Artillery had 2 unicorns supporting a shield. When James VI became James I of England and Ireland, he replaced the unicorn on the left of the shield with the national animal of England, the lion, to evidence that the countries were indeed united.

Why is the unicorn chained?

The unicorn representing Scotland in the coat of arms is always depicted bounded by a golden chain, which is often seen passing effectually its neck and wrapping all around its body. The unicorn was believed to be the strongest of all animals – wild and untamed, and that it could merely be humbled by a virgin maiden. It is possible that the entrapment symbolises the power of the Scottish kings – they were strong plenty to tame even a unicorn.