Auteur: William Bottrell

William Bottrell (1816-1881), a remarkable figure in 19th-century Cornish folklore, is acclaimed for his extensive work in chronicling the rich oral traditions of West Cornwall. With his acute understanding of local dialects and customs, Bottrell ventured beyond merely recording tales; he breathed life into each story, preserving the vernacular and regional essence of a time threatened by the encroaching modernity. A skilled storyteller himself, he found his calling in collecting and retelling the tales that had been passed down through generations. Bottrell »s contributions are most noticeably encapsulated in his seminal work, « Traditions and Hearthside Stories of West Cornwall, Second Series » (1873), which stands as a testament to his meticulous preservation of Cornish lore. This series, a follow-up to his first collection, delves deeper into the myths, legends, and everyday lives of the Cornish people, illuminating the cultural tapestry of the region. Bottrell »s literary style often involved a hybrid narrative that weaved both fact and fiction, creating an enduring legacy that scholars and enthusiasts continue to explore. His narratives, rooted in the landscape and the supernatural, not only reflect his skills as a folklorist but also herald the enduring fascination with the mythical past of Cornwall, leaving an indelible mark on the study of British folklore.