This Hollow Land: Aspects of Norfolk Folklore

There is a rich legacy of beliefs and customs in Norfolk, but it has been overlooked due to a lack of folklore collectors. This book aims to uncover these traditions and promote understanding of the county's cultural heritage.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 01 June 2022
Publisher: Propolis

Published in 2018, "This Hollow Land" experienced a reprinting in 2021 due to overwhelming demand. A third edition is anticipated to be released shortly, and interested individuals are encouraged to regularly check the official website for updates. For many, the folklore of Norfolk is limited to the Swaffham Pedlar, Black Shuck, and Babes in the Wood. What accounts for the apparent scarcity of material? Did the new Puritan faith exert greater suppression on old beliefs in this region, as suggested by Peter Tolhurst, or was it simply that Norfolk lacked a dedicated folklore collector like Enid Porter in the Fens or George Ewart Evans in Suffolk?

In this groundbreaking work, the first of its kind dedicated solely to the county, the author has uncovered a rich tapestry of beliefs and customs that once thrived across Norfolk. The book delves into the depths of the county's heritage, shedding light on the traditions and customs that have been passed down through generations. Through meticulous research and extensive exploration, the author has unearthed a wealth of information that challenges prevailing narratives and provides a fresh perspective on the folklore of Norfolk.

One of the key findings of the book is the prevalence of witchcraft and supernatural beliefs in the region. The author explores the historical context of witch trials and the societal fears and anxieties that surrounded them. They also examine the enduring legacy of witchcraft in Norfolk, with many local communities still holding onto superstitions and beliefs related to the supernatural.

Another fascinating aspect of the book is the exploration of the county's rich heritage of ghost stories and haunted locations. The author visits some of the most notorious haunted sites in Norfolk, including Norwich Castle, Blickling Hall, and the Broads National Park. Through firsthand accounts and detailed descriptions, they bring these locations to life, providing readers with a chilling sense of the supernatural that pervades the county.

In addition to the supernatural, the book also delves into the cultural and social aspects of Norfolk's folklore. The author discusses the influence of the countryside on the local way of life, with many traditions and customs tied to the land and the seasons. They also explore the role of religion in shaping Norfolk's folklore, with the Puritan faith playing a significant role in the suppression of older beliefs and practices.

The book is well-written and accessible to a wide audience, with engaging storytelling and vivid descriptions that bring the county's folklore to life. It is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the history, culture, and folklore of Norfolk, and it will undoubtedly inspire further research and exploration into this rich and fascinating subject.

In conclusion, "This Hollow Land" is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh perspective on the folklore of Norfolk. Through meticulous research and extensive exploration, the author has uncovered a rich legacy of beliefs and customs that once thrived across the county. The book delves into the prevalence of witchcraft and supernatural beliefs, the legacy of ghost stories and haunted locations, the cultural and social aspects of Norfolk's folklore, and the role of religion in shaping the region's folklore. It is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the history, culture, and folklore of Norfolk, and it will undoubtedly inspire further research and exploration into this rich and fascinating subject.

ISBN-13: 9781916905122