Meaning: The quote "His locked, lettered, braw brass collar, Shewed him the gentleman and scholar" is from the poem "The Twa Dogs" by Robert Burns. This particular line is from the first stanza of the poem and is a description of a dog. In the poem, two dogs, a farmer's collie and a nobleman's hound, engage in a conversation about the contrasting lifestyles of their masters. The poem is a social commentary on the disparities between the classes and the impact of wealth and social status on individuals.

The line "His locked, lettered, braw brass collar, Shewed him the gentleman and scholar" specifically describes the nobleman's hound, highlighting the dog's appearance and the symbolism associated with it. The use of "locked" refers to the dog's collar being fastened or secured, indicating that it is well-kept and valuable. The term "lettered" suggests that the collar is adorned with letters or symbols, possibly indicating the dog's ownership or pedigree. "Braw" is a Scottish term meaning fine or handsome, further emphasizing the dog's distinguished appearance. The use of "brass" signifies the material of the collar, which adds to the sense of luxury and opulence.

In this context, the line serves to illustrate the outward signs of privilege and status associated with the nobleman's hound. The dog's collar becomes a symbol of its owner's wealth and social standing, reflecting the broader themes of class distinction and societal hierarchy explored in the poem.

Robert Burns, also known as the Bard of Ayrshire, was a Scottish poet and lyricist who is widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland. His works often reflect the social, cultural, and political landscape of 18th-century Scotland. "The Twa Dogs" is one of his many poems that delve into the themes of class division and societal inequality, drawing on his own experiences and observations of the world around him.

The poem's exploration of the contrasting lives of the two dogs serves as a metaphor for the disparities between the working class and the privileged elite. Through the dogs' conversation, Burns sheds light on the different realities faced by individuals based on their social status and upbringing. The use of imagery, such as the description of the hound's collar, adds depth to the social commentary embedded in the poem.

Furthermore, the inclusion of the term "gentleman and scholar" in the quote further accentuates the notion of privilege and education associated with the nobleman's hound. It implies that the dog, by virtue of its owner's status, is perceived as refined and knowledgeable. This juxtaposition between the two dogs and their respective circumstances underscores Burns' critique of the societal structures that perpetuate inequality and limit opportunities for the less fortunate.

In conclusion, the quote "His locked, lettered, braw brass collar, Shewed him the gentleman and scholar" encapsulates the themes of privilege, status, and social hierarchy present in Robert Burns' poem "The Twa Dogs." Through vivid imagery and symbolism, Burns provides a thought-provoking commentary on the divisions within society and the impact of wealth and class on individuals' lives. The poem continues to resonate as a timeless exploration of social injustice and remains a significant part of Burns' enduring literary legacy.