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Has Mary Queen of Scots influenced the Scottish language?

While Mary, Queen of Scots was a significant figure in Scottish history, her influence on the Scottish language was indirect and limited.

Here's why:

* She was raised in France: Mary spent most of her youth in France, where she learned French as her primary language. While she spoke Scots, it was likely not as fluent as her French.

* Her influence was political: Her reign was tumultuous, marked by political struggles and ultimately, her execution. She didn't have the opportunity to significantly impact language through cultural initiatives or patronage of the arts.

* The language was already changing: The Scots language was evolving during Mary's time, influenced by contact with English and other languages. This evolution was driven by broader social and political factors, not directly by Mary.

However, her presence did contribute in some ways:

* Exposure to French: Her court and interactions with French nobles brought some French influence into the Scottish court and language.

* Patronage of writers: She supported some Scottish writers, although their works might not have directly impacted the language's trajectory.

* Cultural symbol: As a figurehead, she represented Scottish national identity. This might have contributed to the sense of pride in the Scots language, even if indirectly.

In conclusion, while Mary Queen of Scots didn't significantly shape the Scottish language in a direct way, her presence and influence contributed to some nuances within the evolving language landscape. Her impact is more cultural than linguistic, but her legacy remains tied to the history of Scotland and its unique language.

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