Schottische
Also known as: Scotch, Schottish
History & Cultural Context
The Schottische emerged in Germany during the mid-19th century and became popular in Victorian ballrooms. The dance featured a distinctive step-hop pattern and moderate tempo. The schottische became part of both ballroom and folk traditions and remains popular in contemporary folk dance communities.
Cultural Significance
The schottische represented the Victorians' love of varied dance types and remains part of European folk traditions.
Peak Popularity
Key Historical Figures
- Step-Hop
- Turn
Notable Codifiers
- German tradition
Related Dances
More in Historic Gilded Age Ballroom
Polka
The Polka was a lively, bouncy couple dance from Bohemia that became enormously popular across Europe and America during the 19th century, featuring characteristic hop and turn.
Mazurka
The Mazurka was a lively Polish couple dance with syncopated rhythm and characteristic accent patterns, becoming popular in European ballrooms during the 19th century.
Galop
The Galop was a rapid, energetic couple dance with a distinctive galloping action, becoming a popular finish to Victorian ballroom evenings.
Victorian Waltz
Victorian waltz variations including the Redowa combined elements of waltz and polka with elaborate choreography, representing Gilded Age innovation in ballroom dancing.
Laendler
The Laendler was an Austrian peasant couple dance with turning action that influenced the development of the modern waltz and remains part of Alpine folk traditions.