Celtic* mythology believed unicorns represent innocence and purity while also being associated with chivalry, pride, and boldness. The first recorded use of a unicorn symbol was in the twelfth century when it was adopted by William I on the Scottish Royal Coat of Arms. The unicorn is depicted chained (see below) to symbolize the Scottish monarchy's power to tame such a wild beast.
I am surprised I have never run across this information. I am part Scottish and was called "a bonnie wee lassie" as a child. I am descended from the Campbells of Argyll clan, whose tartan is shown HERE.
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* The word "Celtic" used in two sentences above mainly refer to "speakers of Celtic languages" rather than to one ethnic group.
I am half Scottish, from the MacDonald clan, I think originally from the Fife area in the east, but for the past few generations my family has been in the west between Glasgow and Ayr on the coast.
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