The Folklore of Devon
By (author) Mark Norman
Publication date:
06 June 2023Publisher
University of Exeter PressDimensions:
234x156mm6x9"
ISBN-13: 9781804130360
Devon has a long and rich folkloric heritage which has been extensively collected over many years. This book consolidates more than a century of research by eminent Devon folklorists into one valuable study and builds on the vital work that was undertaken by the Devonshire Association, providing insightful analysis of the subject matter and drawing comparisons with folklore traditions beyond the county.
The first major work on Devon's folklore since Ralph Whitlock’s short book published by the Folklore Society in the 1970s, this volume brings the subject into the twenty-first century with consideration of internet memes and modern lore, demonstrating that ‘folklore’ does not equate to ‘old rural practice’. With chapters covering the history of Devon's folklore collecting, tales from the moors, the annual cycle, farming and the weather, the devil, fairies, hauntings, black dogs, witchcraft and modern lore, this will remain the standard work for many years to come.
Mark Norman is the perfect guide through the pixy-paths of Devon tradition. He brings us fairy music and the Devil’s footprints, the White Bird of the Oxenhams and the Black Dog of Vitifer Mine, presented with impeccable scholarship. A teller of good tales with a good understanding of folklore both ancient and modern, he is a worthy successor to the greats – Anna Bray, Theo Brown and Baring-Gould.