Swan Folklore: Hope Is the Thing with Feathers
What is it about swans? They feature heavily in Western European folklore, a graceful animal for a human to be transformed into as a curse, or shapeshifting into humans at will.
Farming in British Folk Tales: Respect or Revenge?
Modern farming has transformed the landscape of Britain and Ireland, to the detriment of nature. Lisa Schneidau argues that the old folk tales of the land are more relevant to us than ever.
British Legends: Elen of the Hosts – Saint, Warrior Queen, Goddess of Sovereignty
Historically, Elen of the Hosts was a real woman who lived in the 4th century, but in British legend and Welsh and Celtic mythology may go back even further.
Werewolves that Fish and Fight in Battles: The Scottish Wulver and Irish Faoladh in Folklore
Werewolves. The name alone conjures up nightmarish images from our current pop culture horror films starring this shapeshifting man-wolf.
May Folklore: May Day, Maypoles and May Queens in Britain
May Day is a traditional spring celebration in many cultures, linked with Gaelic Beltane, and is now also the date of Labour Day.