The Morris Book, Part 1
A History of Morris Dancing, With a Description of Eleven Dances as Performed by the Morris-Men of England
"The Morris Book, Part 1" by Cecil J. Sharp and Herbert C. MacIlwaine is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the traditional English Morris dance, exploring its origins, cultural significance, and presenting a comprehensive guide to several specific dances. The book aims to revive this vibrant aspect of English folk culture, which had diminished over the years, and seeks to inspire a renewed appreciation for these dances within contemporary society. At the start of the book, the authors express their commitment to restoring the Morris dance as a lively and integral part of English cultural heritage. They recount their experiences in introducing Morris dancing to young women at the Espérance Girls' Club in London, emphasizing the enthusiasm and physicality that the dance evokes. The beginning also outlines their motivations and observations about the cultural significance of the Morris dance, including its ties to folk music and community life, and concludes with a statement of intent: to compile all that they learned into a guide that could perpetuate the tradition for future generations.