Subject
Tales -- England Books
Best books
Francis Hindes Groome
Gypsy folk-tales
"Gypsy Folk-Tales" by Francis Hindes Groome is a collection of folklore narratives published in the late 19th century. The work seeks to preserve and present various folk-tales from the Gypsy culture, reflecting the rich oral tradition that encompasses a wide range of themes, characters, and moral lessons integral to Gypsy life. Groome’s interest in Gypsy folklore underscores a desire to document these tales, especially in light of their declining interest among folklorists of his time. The opening of "Gypsy Folk-Tales" sets the stage for Groome’s journey into the world of Gypsy culture, mentioning his attempts to engage folklorists in the significance of these stories over the past two decades. In a detailed preface, Groome discusses the widespread presence of Gypsies in Europe, their nomadic history, and the challenges they face as a culture. He pays homage to influential figures in the field of folklore and acknowledges the contributions of various scholars who have supported his efforts. This introduction prepares readers for a deeper exploration of the folk tales themselves, hinting at the cultural tapestry woven throughout the narratives that follow.
Unknown
Folk-Lore and Legends: English
"Folk-Lore and Legends: English" by Charles John Tibbitts is a collection of traditional tales and folklore written in the late 19th century. This anthology aims to preserve the rich narratives of English folklore, detailing various myths, fairy tales, and legends that have been part of the cultural heritage. The volume includes captivating stories featuring fairies, magical creatures, and extraordinary characters, presenting tales that reflect the imagination and values of the time. The opening of this collection provides an introductory note from the author that emphasizes the urgency of safeguarding old English folklore as modernity encroaches upon the simplicity and charm of these traditions. Tibbitts embraces a variety of tales, including a dissertation on fairies and narratives about characters like Jack and Nelly, the Knocker, laying the foundation for the stories that follow. The initial entries highlight themes of magic, moral lessons, and the whimsical nature of fairy encounters, engaging readers with a mixture of humor and adventure as they delve into the enchanting world of folklore.
G. Basil (George Basil) Barham
Legend Land, Vol. 4 Being a Further Collection of Some of the Old Tales Told in Those Nearer Western Parts of Britain Served by the Great Western Railway
"Legend Land, Vol. 4" by G. Basil Barham is a collection of folklore and legends from various regions in Western Britain, published in the early 20th century. This book serves as a compilation of age-old tales, recounting stories tied to significant locations along the Great Western Railway, blending themes of history, mythology, and local culture. The narratives are rooted in the rich tapestry of British folklore, encapsulating the enduring magic of these traditional tales. Throughout the book, readers are introduced to a multitude of captivating legends, including the transformation of a king and his men into stone, the eerie tale of the Shadow Curse on Raggedstone Hill, and the origins of the city of Bath through the story of Prince Bladud's healing springs. Each legend is intertwined with specific landmarks, enhancing the reader's connection to the places depicted. From King Arthur’s Camelot to the tragic account of a witch in Wookey, the stories convey a sense of wonder while reflecting the cultural heritage of the regions, inviting readers to explore the enchanting world of British myths and the locales they inhabit.
G. Basil (George Basil) Barham
Legend Land, Vol. 3 Being a Further Collection of Some of the Old Tales Told in Those Western Parts of Britain Served by the Great Western Railway
"Legend Land, Vol. 3" by G. Basil Barham is a collection of folklore recounting old tales from the Western parts of Britain, particularly those associated with the Great Western Railway. The book, published in the early 20th century, reflects the rich cultural heritage and enchanting myths that arise from regions such as Wales and Cornwall. Its likely topic revolves around the exploration of local legends and their historical importance to the respective areas. In this volume, the narratives feature a variety of characters and stories derived from Welsh and Cornish folklore, including whimsical accounts of princes, saints, and magical creatures. The tales, such as the story of St. Melangell, who turned the hearts of hunters toward compassion, and the legend of King Arthur sleeping in his hilltop cave, are infused with elements of adventure, moral lessons, and the supernatural. Each tale is set against picturesque landscapes and historical landmarks, inviting readers to appreciate both the rich lore of these regions and the serene beauty that inspired them. Collectively, they highlight the intertwined nature of history and mythology, encouraging readers to connect with the past while enjoying an imaginative escape.
G. Basil (George Basil) Barham
Legend Land, Vol. 2 Being a Collection of Some of the Old Tales Told in Those Western Parts of Britain Served by the Great Western Railway
"Legend Land, Vol. 2" by G. Basil Barham is a collection of folklore tales from the western regions of Britain, particularly those associated with the Great Western Railway. Written in the early 20th century, the book incorporates traditional stories and legends that reflect the cultural history and mystical essence of places like Devon and Cornwall, showcasing themes of supernatural elements, local heroes, and the interplay between the natural and the mystical world. The book features a variety of enchanting tales, such as "The Church the Devil Stole," where villagers confront the devil over their church, and "The Weaver of Dean Combe," which tells of a ghostly weaver forced to redeem his soul. Other stories include the heroic figure of St. Neot, a pint-sized saint with remarkable powers over animals, and the mysterious lost land of Lyonesse, which was submersed under the sea. Each tale is rooted in the local geography and history, evoking the allure and whimsy of the English countryside while preserving the oral tradition of storytelling that has entertained generations.
G. Basil (George Basil) Barham
Legend Land, Vol. 1 Being a Collection of Some of the Old Tales Told in Those Western Parts of Britain Served by the Great Western Railway
"Legend Land, Vol. 1" by G. Basil Barham is a collection of folklore tales written in the early 20th century. The book showcases a series of old legends from the western regions of Britain, particularly Cornwall and Wales, brought to life for contemporary readers. These stories, steeped in local tradition, explore themes of love, adventure, and the supernatural, drawing largely from the rich cultural heritage of the areas served by the Great Western Railway. The book presents an array of captivating tales that include the haunting story of the "Mermaid of Zennor" and the cautionary legend of "The Stone Men of St. Cleer," among others. Each story is rooted in the landscape and history of the region, featuring characters such as holy men, giants, and mythical fairies. Readers will encounter magical beings like piskies and mermaids, while tales of bravery against invaders highlight the enduring spirit of the local populace. The narratives weave in elements of moral lessons, illustrating the consequences of human folly, valor, and devotion, making "Legend Land, Vol. 1" a delightful homage to the folklore and mythology that shape the cultural identity of these enchanting locales.
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