The Routledge Companion to English Folk Performance

This collection of essays provides an introduction to contemporary folklore scholarship and the variety of folk performance forms throughout English history. It combines case studies of specific folk practices with discussion of the different lenses through which they have been viewed since Victorian times, and is written by scholars who are also practicing performers. Chapters range across folk song, music, drama, and dance, with a focus on the key defining characteristics of folk performance, such as custom and tradition.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 596 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive collection of essays serves as an introductory guide to the multifaceted realm of contemporary folklore scholarship, while also providing a rich exploration of the diverse forms that folk performance has taken throughout the history of England. By seamlessly combining case studies of specific folk practices with a comprehensive analysis of the various perspectives through which these traditions have been studied since their emergence as a focus of concerted research in the Victorian era, this book emerges as a significant contribution to the ever-expanding body of contemporary folklore scholarship.

Moreover, the book stands out for its unique blend of academic expertise and practical experience, as many of the contributing scholars are not only accomplished scholars but also active practitioners in the field of folk performance. Their firsthand insights and perspectives enrich the analyses and critiques presented in the chapters, offering a deeper understanding of the intricacies and nuances of folk performance.

Spanning a wide range of folk genres, including song, music, drama, and dance, the book maintains a steadfast focus on the defining characteristics of folk performance—custom and tradition—in a diverse array of performances. From the joyous melodies of carol singing and the dramatic movements of sword dancing to the playful rhymes of playground games and the theatrical antics of mummers' plays, the book showcases the rich tapestry of folk traditions that have flourished throughout England.

Beyond its academic significance, this collection of essays is an invaluable resource for scholars, researchers, and enthusiasts across various disciplines, including dance, drama, song, and music. It provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the historical, cultural, and social contexts that shape folk performance, and offers insightful perspectives on the enduring relevance and significance of these traditions in contemporary society.

In conclusion, this broad-based collection of essays serves as an indispensable introduction to the concerns of contemporary folklore scholarship, while also presenting a captivating journey through the diverse forms of folk performance throughout English history. By combining academic rigor with practical expertise, it offers a valuable resource for scholars, practitioners, and enthusiasts alike, contributing to our understanding of the rich and complex tapestry of folk traditions and their enduring impact on our cultural heritage.

Weight: 1322g
Dimension: 174 x 246 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032021966