The Case of Cattanach and Cuthbert

A Highland Murder, Superstition, and Escape

In the mid-18th century, the Scottish Highlands were a place of stark contrasts—rugged beauty and brutal conflict, fierce loyalty and lawlessness. Clan culture still dominated much of life, and many Highlanders viewed the growing influence of central government with suspicion and resistance. Justice, as imposed by the authorities, was often seen as an e…