Subject
Folklore -- England -- Cornwall (County) Books
Best books
M. A. (Margaret Ann) Courtney
Cornish Feasts and Folk-lore
"Cornish Feasts and Folk-lore" by M. A. Courtney is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work delves into the rich tapestry of Cornish traditions, examining the folklore, customs, and culinary practices surrounding various feasts celebrated in Cornwall. It explores themes of hospitality, community, and the intertwining of religious observance with local customs. The opening of the book presents a vivid introduction to Cornish traditions. It discusses the enduring beliefs in charms and superstitions, describing the local customs related to saints’ days and community feasts that are celebrated with enthusiasm, such as "feasten" Sunday and Monday. Detailed descriptions of the special foods prepared for these occasions, including "figgy-pudden" and various types of cakes, provide a glimpse into the culinary heritage of Cornwall. Courtney sets the stage for a deeper exploration of rituals, fairs, and the interplay of joy and superstition that characterize Cornish culture, inviting readers to appreciate the unique traditions of this region.
Robert Hunt
Popular Romances of the West of England, Second Series or, The Drolls, Traditions, and Superstitions of Old Cornwall
"Popular Romances of the West of England, Second Series" by Robert Hunt is a collection that delves into the folklore, superstitions, and traditions of Cornwall, likely written in the mid-19th century. This work captures a rich tapestry of local legends, saints, and their miraculous deeds, aiming to preserve the oral narratives that characterize the region's cultural identity. The tales feature various saints, each embodying distinct virtues or lessons intertwined with the natural landscape of Cornwall. The opening of the collection introduces a theme of nostalgia for the past, noting that storytelling around the fire was once a common practice that has faded with time. Hunt sets the stage by discussing the exaltation of saints from ordinary men into legendary figures through oral tradition. This portion includes the legends of different saints in Cornwall, such as St. Just and St. Keverne, highlighting their miraculous feats and the moral lessons embedded in their stories. Each legend serves to illustrate the blend of Christianity and local beliefs, showcasing how historical and supernatural elements intertwine in the lives of these saints, captivating the reader's imagination with a sense of belonging to this mystical past.
William Bottrell
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.
Enys Tregarthen
The Piskey-Purse: Legends and Tales of North Cornwall
"The Piskey-Purse: Legends and Tales of North Cornwall" by Enys Tregarthen is a collection of folkloric stories, likely written in the early 20th century. This work showcases various enchanting tales centered around the mystical beings known as Piskeys and other fairies, celebrating the rich folklore of Cornwall. The stories feature characters such as the children Gerna and Gelert, who interact with fairy folk in their adventures, highlighting themes of kindness, curiosity, and the magical interplay between the human and fairy worlds. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Gerna and Gelert, two siblings living with their great-grandmother near Polzeath Bay. The children are captivated by tales of the merry Piskeys, particularly during one evening when they witness the Piskeys dancing on the cliffs. Gerna soon finds a peculiar Piskey-purse while searching for limpets, which is enchanted and houses a tiny creature that pleads for her help. This opening sets the stage for a blend of adventure and moral reflection, as Gerna must navigate her desire for wealth against her empathy for the captive within the purse, highlighting the central theme of selflessness versus greed.
Enys Tregarthen
North Cornwall Fairies and Legends
"North Cornwall Fairies and Legends" by Enys Tregarthen is a collection of fairy tales and folklore written in the early 20th century. The work delves into the rich tapestry of Cornish mythology, focusing on local fairies known as Piskeys and recounting their whimsical adventures and the legends associated with them, set against the backdrop of North Cornwall's enchanting landscapes. The stories emanate a sense of nostalgia and cultural heritage, making them appealing not only to children but to readers of all ages who appreciate folklore and fantasy. The opening of the collection introduces readers to the magical realm of the Piskeys, beginning with an endearing tale about a Piskey who loses his laugh amidst merry dancing near Tintagel Castle. As he grapples with this strange affliction, we learn about the close-knit community of Piskeys who delight in merriment and dance. The narrative unravels with charming dialogue and descriptions of the Piskeys’ quirky nature, setting the stage for the Piskey's journey to find his laughter, which takes him to various mythical figures, including the wise Granfer Piskey, the elusive Lantern Man, and even the legendary Giant Tregeagle. This whimsical and heartfelt storyline encapsulates the overarching themes of friendship, adventure, and the enduring belief in magic within the Cornish landscape.
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