Companion to Folklore, Myths & Customs

by Marc Alexander

Ths volume provides a companion to the legends and customs in England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. A general introduction is followed by 15 sections (Customs and Pageantry, Standing Stones, Mythical Creatures, The Arthurian Cycle, Christian Folklore, The Devil and his Works, Fairy Lore, Witchcraft and Magic, Heroes and Villains, Historical Hauntings, Mysteries of the Past; Omens and Family Traditions, Superstitions and Charms, Royal Traditions, and Pub Lore of Old England), each of which also has its own short preface, but is mainly presented as an A - Z guide. For example, within Mythical Creatures readers can find out about the Loch Ness Monster, St George and the Dragon, the Yeth or Wish Hounds, and so on; within Heroes and Villains are Arthur, Boudicca, Robert the Bruce, Robin Hood, and so on. References are included to relevant places to visit and at the end of the book there is a Folk Custom Calendar of events held throughout the year.

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Folklore, Mythology, Reference

368 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1992

Reviews

[Lorraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will certainly return to this book time and again as I am forever loving and reading about Britain. Marc Alexander’s The Sutton Companion to British Folklore, Myths & Legends has answered questions that I have had about particular myths and legends for quite a long time. This book covers so many places, people, paranormal, (a little alliteration), definitions, and all other kinds of great information. Highly recommended!! 5 stars!

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good reference book that is arranged A to Z. The arrangement makes certain legends and topics appear over and over again. I think I might have been more happy to complete subjects by chapters, but it is encyclopedic as it is. I think I’ve had enough of the matter of Arthur for a while. It covers ancient beginnings of British lore through the latest in crop circles and UFOlogy.

[Dark-Draco · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my favourite reference books on my shelf. It ia basically an A-Z of some of Britain's most famous traditions, stories and customs. From Cheese Rolling to Ghostly carriages, Witch trials to working miracles. Although nothing is really discussed in much depth, it gives you a great overview from which you can go on to research your chosen intrest, or dip in and out of as the mood takes you. Well worth having a copy of.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Did not disappoint.