Author
William Bottrell
1816-1881
William Bottrell (1816-1881) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by William Bottrell
Traditions and Hearthside Stories of West Cornwall, Second Series
"Traditions and Hearthside Stories of West Cornwall, Second Series" by William Bottrell is a collection of folk tales and traditions written in the late 19th century." The book showcases a variety of stories rooted in Cornish culture, featuring characters such as Squire Lovell, the clever Duffy, and the Devil, along with various witches and villagers. This collection aims to preserve local lore and the rich oral storytelling tradition. "The opening of the book introduces "Duffy and the Devil," an old Christmas play reflective of the area's theatrical heritage." It begins with the character of Squire Lovell hiring Duffy to assist with knitting, unaware that the devil has made a pact with her, offering to do her work for three years in exchange for her soul. The introduction sets a whimsical tone, illustrating the play's humorous elements and the quaint customs of the time, while also hinting at the deeper themes of desire and deception as Duffy navigates her relationships with the Squire and the devil. The narrative is infused with lively dialogue and descriptions of rural life, engaging readers with its charm and wit.
Stories and folk-lore of West Cornwall. Third Series
"Stories and Folk-lore of West Cornwall. Third Series" by William Bottrell is a collection of folk tales, legends, and local traditions compiled in the late 19th century. The anthology presents the beliefs, supernatural occurrences, and rural customs of Cornwall, focusing on storytelling as it was preserved among local people. Readers can expect accounts of ghosts, witches, demonic encounters, village feasts, old sports, and superstitions, reflecting the unique character and mythology of the Cornish countryside. The opening of the book sets the scene with a preface noting the author’s failing health and situates the work within the growing interest in folk-lore studies of the era. It then introduces a table of contents showing a rich mix of legends, ghost stories, supernatural events, and local customs. The initial stories describe the figure of Mr. Wood, a Rector skilled in exorcism, astrology, and community leadership, who helps his parishioners face supernatural threats. Notable tales include Jackey Trevail’s wrestling match with a devil and the exorcism of ghosts haunting an old Cornish mansion. The early chapters are lively and full of local color, ghostly encounters, Cornish dialect, and insight into both the magical and everyday realities of rural Cornwall.