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Cover of The Story of an Ancient Parish: Breage with Germoe: With Some Account of Its Armigers, Worthies and Unworthies, Smugglers and Wreckers, Its Traditions and Superstitions

The Story of an Ancient Parish: Breage with Germoe: With Some Account of Its Armigers, Worthies and Unworthies, Smugglers and Wreckers, Its Traditions and Superstitions

Written by H. R. (Hugh Robert) Coulthard

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Cornwall (England : County)Breage (England)Germoe (England)

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About this book

"The Story of an Ancient Parish: Breage with Germoe" by H. R. Coulthard is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the extensive and rich history of the ancient parish of Breage and Germoe in Cornwall, detailing its various inhabitants and events, including notable figures and local legends. The narrative delves into the traditions, customs, and social dynamics shaping the parish over centuries, offering insights into its significance in the broader context of Cornwall's history. At the start of the narrative, Coulthard sets the stage for the exploration of Breage's ancient history, beginning with an examination of its earliest inhabitants, the Ivernians. The text outlines the arrival of the Celtic peoples and their interaction with the native population, as well as the establishment of religious practices that have persisted through time. The author highlights significant archaeological finds, such as stone tools and remnants of ancient structures, indicating a rich cultural tapestry. The opening chapters invoke a sense of place and history, inviting readers to appreciate the complexities of this ancient parish and the interplay of various cultural and historical influences.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Story of an Ancient Parish: Breage with Germoe: With Some Account of Its Armigers, Worthies and Unworthies, Smugglers and Wreckers, Its Traditions and Superstitions, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 12 hours
  • intermediate
  • informative
  • historical
  • scholarly

H. R. Coulthard's "The Story of an Ancient Parish: Breage with Germoe" is a meticulously researched historical account from the early 20th century, chronicling the rich heritage of a Cornish parish. The book delves into the area's earliest inhabitants, the Ivernians, and traces the subsequent cultural and social evolution through the arrival of Celtic peoples and the establishment of enduring religious practices. Beyond archaeological findings and significant historical figures, Coulthard explores local traditions, superstitions, and the vibrant social dynamics shaped by its unique cast of 'worthies and unworthies,' smugglers, and wreckers. It offers a comprehensive tapestry of life in Breage and Germoe, highlighting its distinct identity within the broader context of Cornwall's history and inviting readers to appreciate the deep layers of its past.

“The very stones beneath our feet whisper tales of an age long past, of Ivernians and Celts, whose spirits yet linger in this ancient soil.”

Key themes

The Enduring Identity of Place
This theme explores how the unique geographical and historical characteristics of Breage and Germoe have fostered a distinct and persistent community identity over millennia. It examines how successive layers of inhabitants, from Ivernians to present-day residents, have contributed to and been shaped by the parish's specific landscape, traditions, and historical events.
Continuity and Change in Human Settlement
The book meticulously traces the evolution of settlement, culture, and society in the parish, demonstrating how ancient practices and beliefs persist while new influences and developments transform the community. It examines the dynamic interplay between tradition and innovation over centuries.
Human Nature in Extremes: Worthies, Unworthies, and Outlaws
This theme delves into the diverse moral landscape of the parish, highlighting the spectrum of human behavior from altruistic 'worthies' to morally ambiguous 'unworthies,' and the outright illicit activities of smugglers and wreckers. It explores the motivations behind these actions, often rooted in survival, community loyalty, or defiance.

Worth discussing

How does Coulthard balance documented history with local legends and superstitions? What is the value of including folklore in a historical account?

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