The Traditional Culture of Sussex: Both Sides of the Downs

Description

An exploration of the traditional culture of Sussex through its folklore, seasonal customs, folksongs and legends and traditional occupations such as shepherding and inshore fishing and those outside the law, such as smugglers, highwaymen and poachers. From saints to smugglers, from may garlands to mummers, from wife-sales to witchcraft and legends in the landscape-this book gives an insight into the traditional culture, beliefs and practices of rural Sussex in the context of landscape, antiquities, settlement patterns, belief practices and economics. The Book contains much original research and an examination of primary sources. Topics include: 'Legends in the Landscape'; 'Spring & Summer Customs'; 'Religion and Folklore-Saints, Witches and Guy Fawkes Night'; 'The Winter Solstice and Celebration of Christmas; 'The Law of the Forest and Poaching'; 'Folk Drama'; 'Songs of the People'; 'The Shepherds of the Downs' and 'The Cinque Ports & Smuggling'.

Dr Geoff Doel lectures on literature, medieval culture and traditional culture for the University of Canterbury Christ Church & the WEA & U3A. He is an Honorary Fellow of the University of Kent & formerly lectured at Birkbeck & Goldsmiths Colleges & the City Lit. He has a Phd on Thomas Hardy's Use of Folklore, is co-author with his wife Fran of 16 books on aspects of Traditional Culture, particularly on his native Sussex & on Kent, and has made several TV appearances including 'Time Team'.