Rough
Music explores transgression and shame in British folklore and
customs. It takes in a wide array of examples including Bonfire Night,
Wassail, Morris dancing, Mari Lwyd and Twelfth Night, along with events like
the Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling and Wake, and street football. Liz Williams
explores the roots and roles of violence, mockery, protest and public
shaming. She also addresses alternative culture and modern protests, such as
the Battle of the Beanfield and the Stonehenge Free Festival. The interaction
between racism and traditions involving blackface, alongside the emergence of
all-female Morris sides, is also examined. Finally, it looks at folklore’s
evolution in the digital age, highlighting new developments such as ghost
bikes. This engaging book offers an entertaining yet rigorous look at British
folklore and culture.
- ISBN13 9781836390602
- Publish Date 1 March 2025
- Publish Status Forthcoming
- Publish Country GB
- Imprint Reaktion Books
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 336
- Language English