Maypoles, Martyrs and Mayhem: 366 days of British myths, customs & eccentricities

(Paperback)

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Description

This work offers insight into the part played by superstition in British history - the omens and beliefs that have guided kings and shaped the course of battles. Fact, myth and slapstick have all played their part in the story of these islands, and popular versions of events sometimes differ from those found in the standard history books. This book contains over 400 current and continuing customs, over 300 things to see, and over 150 haunted sites. Each of the customs and celebrations included is given its appropriate day, from New Year's Day to Hogmanay, from Shetland to the Channel Islands. When relevant, a story or event is included.

Reviews

'A new initiative in the production of popular works on the customs and cultural heritage of the British' * Times Literary Supplement *
'...will yield not just hours but years of happy browsing' * Daily Express *
'A delicious diary of myths, superstitions, customs and the silly ways in which we British celebrate them' * Mail on Sunday *
'A rich bran pie of data, full of surreal feats of obscure saints and whimsy of all kinds' * Fortean Times *
'An irreverent almanac of British customs and celebrations throughout the year' * Independent on Sunday *
'A perfectly conceived compendium of culture' * The Times *

Author Bio

Paul Sullivan: Apart from wielding a pen in the social history/folklore arena, Paul is also a professional copywriter and proofreader. Taking frequent time out to record and perform as a folk musician, he is currently living and working in Oxford, researching for a history PhD, and enjoying the company of his wife and three sons.
Quentin Cooper: When not side-tracked by myths and customs, Quentin Cooper presents BBC Radio 4's ongoing science series Material World. He has also presented and produced a range of other science, arts, technology and entertainment programmes for radio and television, as well as regularly writing for magazines and newspapers and hosting events and conferences around the world. Despite a lifelong interest in folklore, he is only superstitious when watching Manchester City.