Continuing from our discussion yesterday regarding discourses we can also view the photos in the project from a second viewpoint........

2. Status discourse

In each of the photos the size, quality, materials and decorative stonework gives a fairly clear idea of the status of individuals who resided in the properties.

Each of the large houses appear to have been made with the same stone type, red sandstone, which itself has a decorative nuance. The stones are often cut to appear uniform and there are numerous decorative archways, stonework, windows and doorways which add to the impression of high status. The large size of the properties highlights wealth and denotes that the occupants were able to afford heating, staff and sundries required for such a large household. The size of the properties also denotes a commanding presence in the landscape and perhaps signifies the importance of the inhabitants socially as opposed to the smaller homes inhabitants.

The smaller houses, often in less salubrious and more marginal locations, all are presented as small, low roofed homes. They generally appear to have one fireplace at the end of the property, usually only 2 doors at most and little to no decorative stonework. The stones appear rough and of various sizes. These homes appear to be local stone of varying kinds and, whilst built with skill, not attempting to be unique or decorative.  These homes give a picture of utility and frugality consistent with lower status homes.

It would be highly worthwhile to continue this analysis of how properties signify status in the landscape of the Highlands as there are many more properties and much more to be learned from styles and location in the landscape.