Spinning a Tale: Spinning and Weaving in Myths and Legends
Spinning is a fundamentally human thing, and something that we have been doing since far into the ancient past.
Protection from Evil, Bad Traffic or Bears: Omamori in Japanese Culture
Although their origins lie in Japanese folk traditions, omamori are still a popular sight throughout Japan. The word itself, 御守り, doesn’t have a direct translation into English, but they are protection charms – usually for sale within both Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines – which are said to contain spirits.
As the Crow Flies: Corvids in Lore and Legend
Birds of the crow family have long been heralds of doom and devastation. They destroy crops, devour corpses, act as emissaries for soothsayers and Gods, and are closely linked to human fortunes.
Life in India: A Portrait of My First English Teacher
“Hat, cat, rat,” Umakant would shout at the top of his voice whenever he would see cowherds around the Peepal tree.
Peterborough: Folklore from a Neglected Corner of England
The city of Peterborough in the east of England and its surrounding region is one of the few English areas that has not previously benefitted from a thorough study of its folklore.