In parts of the United Kingdom, seeing a single magpie is considered a bad omen. However, saluting the magpie by tipping your hat and giving it a friendly greeting as a sign of respect can ward off any bad luck that could result from the encounter. #FolkloreSunday
David Robb discusses James Hogg’s short stories “Mary Burnet”, “The Brownie of the Black Haggs”, & “Strange Letter of a Lunatic” at our 2017 Schools Conference
My name is Amy, and I'm a writer and folklorist specialising in the interplay between history and folklore, with an emphasis on the Folklore and Ghosts of Shropshire.
Could some theme park malfunctions in Orlando actually be ghostly pranks? According to some Walt Disney World employees, a spirit named George haunts the Pirates of the Caribbean ride and will make it break down if no one wishes him a good morning that day. #FolkloreSunday
In the ballad of Thomas the Rhymer, Thomas encountered a woman so beautiful that he initially addressed her as the Queen of Heaven. However, she corrected him by identifying herself as the Queen of Elfland before taking Thomas away to her realm for seven years. #MythologyMonday
The ghosts of the old Noricans fled into the depths of the mountains when they longer wanted to witness the shame of their descendants losing to the forces of Napoleon.
One of the things that's most insightful about writing about the Devil in Shropshire Folklore (for my book) is how complex these beliefs are, and how they serve as a conduit for the attitudes of a community. I feel such a tangible connection to the past through these tales. Owd Scratch is more than a stock character. He is a powerful symbol, gaining new meaning with every retelling.
The "Three Maidens" motif shows up in German folklore in many forms. They can be ghosts, cursed princesses, saints, even goddesses - and household spirits.
#Writing and other creative tags are useful once you filter out those who are only using Mastodon for promotion and never engage with other people. I have no trouble muting words and people to make my feed interesting and inspiring.