Subject
Morris dance Books
Best books
Francis Douce
Illustrations of Shakspeare, and of Ancient Manners: with Dissertations on the Clowns and Fools of Shakspeare; on a Collection of Popular Tales Entitled Gesta Romanorum; and on the English Morris dance.
"Illustrations of Shakspeare, and of Ancient Manners" by Francis Douce is a collection of literary commentary and historical analysis written in the early 19th century. This work serves as an exploration of Shakspeare's texts, particularly focusing on elucidating clowns and fools within his plays, the influences of popular tales like the "Gesta Romanorum," and the cultural significance of the English morris dance. At the start of the text, Douce presents a preface that underlines the necessity of commentary on Shakespeare's complex writings. He outlines his approach, indicating a division of readers based on how they engage with Shakespeare's plays, and reflects on previous scholars' contributions to the field. Douce's introduction suggests that his work will build upon these foundations, aiming to shed light on obscure customs, clarify difficult passages, and provide a deeper understanding of the characters and themes that populate Shakespeare’s works. Overall, the opening sections set the stage for an in-depth look at the rich interplay between Shakespeare's literature and the social customs of his time.
William Kemp
Kemps Nine Daies Wonder: Performed in a Daunce from London to Norwich
"Kemps Nine Daies Wonder: Performed in a Daunce from London to Norwich" by William Kemp is a satirical account written in the early 17th century. This work combines elements of autobiography and travelogue as it recounts the comic actor's journey from London to Norwich while performing a morris dance, showcasing his experiences during the trek and addressing the slanderous tales propagated by ballad-makers. The opening of the work introduces William Kemp, a well-known comic actor of the Elizabethan stage, who embarks on a unique journey where he not only dances but engages with the local populace along the way. Kemp sets off from London, accompanied by his taberer, and is met with an array of responses from the townspeople, ranging from kindness to mockery. He describes the various obstacles and humorous situations he encounters, including people attempting to join his dance and the challenges of navigating through crowds. His light-hearted tone establishes the blend of humor and reflection that characterizes the entire work, setting the stage for a delightful narrative filled with entertaining anecdotes from his travels.
Cecil J. (Cecil James) Sharp
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.
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