About this item
Highlights
- This book unravels the complexities of traditional storytelling and uses creative analytical techniques to uncover the meanings of the stories we tell.
- About the Author: Robert Fell recently gained his PhD in Celtic and Scottish Studies at the University of Edinburgh.
- 232 Pages
- Literary Criticism, European
Description
About the Book
Examines traditional oral narratives to uncover function and meaning within the unique folkloric expressions of Scotland's Traveller communitiesBook Synopsis
This book unravels the complexities of traditional storytelling and uses creative analytical techniques to uncover the meanings of the stories we tell. The reader is first acquainted with conceptualisations of how stories make meaning in our lives, then guided through a selection of stories from the rich traditions of Scotland's Traveller and Nawken/Nacken communities.
Beginning with a nuanced historical overview of the communities, Traveller Storytelling in Scotland: Folklore, Ideology and Cultural Identity then draws on archives, texts and interviews to introduce readers to the unique and vibrant folklore of Scotland's Travellers and Nawken/Nacken. It connects ethnology and literary criticism to contextualise folklore and reveal how its ideological priorities underpin cultural identity. Utilising diverse analytical techniques, this book is a timely examination of a folkloric idiom that has, until now, been sorely in need of further scrutiny. It showcases the sophistication and enduring relevance of folkloric expressions to contemporary Scottish culture.
From the Back Cover
Examines Scottish storytelling traditions to uncover function and meaning within a set of distinctive folkloric expressions Storytelling lies at the heart of much that we do, say, experience and express, yet its enigmatic world-making force is too often taken for granted. The stories that we share in our traditions not only build communities but give meaning to both our individual and collective experiences. Merging insights from a broad range of studies - connecting ethnology, literary criticism, social history and ideology - Robert Fell uncovers how stories make meaning within Scotland's iconic Traveller/Nawken/Nacken communities. This celebratory book guides the reader through one of the world's most sophisticated and expressive communities of storytellers. It unravels the complexities of storytelling as tradition and sets out analytical techniques that can uncover the meanings of the stories we tell. With vivid detail and lively debate, Traveller Storytelling in Scotland captures the enduring relevance of traditional storytelling to contemporary Scottish culture, and beyond. Robert Fell recently gained his PhD in Celtic and Scottish Studies at the University of Edinburgh. He continues to research various aspects of the intangible cultural heritages of Scotland's Traveller and Nawken/Nacken communities.Review Quotes
A fascinating insight into the oral narrative traditions of Scottish Travellers and into how stories work. Drawing on Travellers' own interpretations and working collaboratively with them, Robert Fell reveals the multilayered nature of Traveller storytelling as a vehicle for cultural identity and as a collective expression of values, worldviews and aesthetic sensibilities. A richly rewarding read.--Bairbre Ní Fhloinn, University College Dublin
An essential contribution to our understanding of the Scottish Travellers: their lore and language, their ancient heritage, their fraught relations with mainstream society, and their stories, which are so deeply imbued with humane values.
--John D. Niles, University of Wisconsin, MadisonAbout the Author
Robert Fell recently gained his PhD in Celtic and Scottish Studies at the University of Edinburgh. He continues to research various aspects of the intangible cultural heritages of Scotland's Traveller and Nawken/Nacken communities.