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Cover of Traditions and Hearthside Stories of West Cornwall, Second Series

Traditions and Hearthside Stories of West Cornwall, Second Series

Written by William Bottrell

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LegendsCornwall (England : County)

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About this book

"Traditions and Hearthside Stories of West Cornwall, Second Series" by William Bottrell is a collection of folk tales and traditions written in the late 19th century." The book showcases a variety of stories rooted in Cornish culture, featuring characters such as Squire Lovell, the clever Duffy, and the Devil, along with various witches and villagers. This collection aims to preserve local lore and the rich oral storytelling tradition. "The opening of the book introduces "Duffy and the Devil," an old Christmas play reflective of the area's theatrical heritage." It begins with the character of Squire Lovell hiring Duffy to assist with knitting, unaware that the devil has made a pact with her, offering to do her work for three years in exchange for her soul. The introduction sets a whimsical tone, illustrating the play's humorous elements and the quaint customs of the time, while also hinting at the deeper themes of desire and deception as Duffy navigates her relationships with the Squire and the devil. The narrative is infused with lively dialogue and descriptions of rural life, engaging readers with its charm and wit.

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Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Traditions and Hearthside Stories of West Cornwall, Second Series, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • humorous
  • mysterious
  • whimsical

William Bottrell's "Traditions and Hearthside Stories of West Cornwall, Second Series" is a vital late 19th-century compilation dedicated to preserving the rich oral folklore of Cornwall. This collection vividly captures the region's unique cultural heritage through a diverse array of tales featuring local characters like the clever Duffy, the formidable Squire Lovell, and supernatural entities such as the Devil and various witches. The book's opening piece, "Duffy and the Devil," exemplifies its whimsical tone and humorous engagement with themes of deception and human wit against otherworldly forces. Bottrell's work serves as an invaluable historical document, offering a window into the quaint customs, lively dialogue, and rural life that defined West Cornwall's storytelling tradition.

“"The Devil's work is never done, but for three years, little Duffy, it shall be mine!"”

Key themes

Preservation of Folklore and Oral Tradition
This is the overarching purpose of Bottrell's work. The book itself is an act of preserving stories, customs, and dialect that were at risk of being lost. It highlights the cultural significance of storytelling in maintaining community identity and historical memory.
Human Ingenuity vs. Supernatural Power
Many tales, most notably 'Duffy and the Devil,' explore how ordinary people, through cleverness, wit, or sheer determination, can outsmart or overcome powerful supernatural forces. This theme celebrates the resilience and intelligence of the human spirit.
Deception and Its Consequences
The theme of deception is central, particularly in 'Duffy and the Devil,' where the Devil deceives Duffy into a pact, and Duffy, in turn, must employ a clever form of 'deception' (by discovering his secret) to free herself. It explores the moral implications of trickery, both malicious and self-preserving.

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How does Bottrell's collection reflect the unique cultural identity of West Cornwall in the late 19th century?

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