The Customs and Traditions of Wales (Pocket Guide) - Softcover

Owen, Trefor M.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0708311180 ISBN 13: 9780708311189

Publisher: University of Wales Press, 1991

Synopsis

This concise and informative guide looks back to the customs and traditions of a predominantly rural Wales during the nineteenth century -- the revelries of the corn harvest; winter nights by the fireside, knitting, telling stories and making rush candles; overcoming poverty and hardship by raising funds at a cwrw bach... Each chapter is complemented by several eye-witness accounts -- vivid descriptions of a forgotten way of life.  Customs are arranged into four main groups: those centered on the hearth and home, agriculture, community life and the parish church. In this book, Trefor M. Owen explores the origins of Welsh customs and traditions and examines the changes they underwent during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries in response to industrialization and the growth of Nonconformity.

About this title

About the Author:

Trefor M. Owen, former Curator at the Welsh Folk Museum, is a recognized authority on Welsh folk traditions.

Review:

“This guide is certainly pocket-sized, but the depth and breadth of its contents are quite remarkable, and equal to what is often found in a much bulkier tome.” –Lore and Language

(Lore and Language)

“. . . Trefor M. Owen has admirably succeeded in introducing his reader to a wealth of information on the social history, customs and traditions of Wales.” –Rural Wales

(Rural Wales)

“. . . extremely neat and pleasing in presentation . . . Altogether the guide is immensely accessible and user- friendly for both expert and layman. It is a pocket version in the best sense - comprehensive yet succinct.” –Welsh Historian

(Welsh Historian)

About this edition

• Publisher: University of Wales Press
• Publication date: 1991
• ISBN 10: 0708311180
• ISBN 13: 9780708311189
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 108