The Solitary Reaper

by William Wordsworth

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Student Question

What are the Hebrides and why are they referred to as the 'farthest'?

Quick answer:

The Hebrides are a rugged archipelago off Scotland's western coast, known for their varied landscapes from typical Scottish to arctic-like. They are often referred to as the "farthest" due to their remote location, symbolizing the edge of the known world in English literature. The Inner Hebrides include the Isle of Skye, accessible by bridge, while the Outer Hebrides, also called the Western Isles, include places like St. Kilda.

Expert Answers

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The Hebrides is an archipelago off the western coast of Scotland.  These islands are ruggedly beautiful, and range from typical northern Scottish scenery to somewhat arctic rockiness.  They have represented for England the end of the earth, at least in literary terms.

The Inner Hebrides includes the Isle of Skye, which can now be reached by bridge as well as ferry.  The Outer Hebrides include St. Kilda.  The entire area is often referred to as the Sea of Hebrides, and the Outer Hebrides are also known as the Western Isles.  The links below include a look at the geology of the area and a tour experience.

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