Wentworth Webster 
Basque Legends; With an Essay on the Basque Language 

In ‘Basque Legends; With an Essay on the Basque Language’ by Wentworth Webster, readers are taken on a captivating journey through the rich cultural heritage of the Basque people. The book presents a collection of intriguing legends that shed light on the folklore and traditions of this unique ethnic group. Webster’s literary style is both enchanting and informative, providing readers with a deep understanding of Basque culture. The inclusion of an essay on the Basque language adds another layer of depth to the text, offering valuable insights into this ancient linguistic tradition. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in folklore, cultural studies, or the Basque region. Webster’s meticulous research and engaging storytelling make ‘Basque Legends’ a must-read for those seeking to explore the fascinating world of Basque folklore and language.

About the author

Wentworth Webster (1828–1907) was a distinguished English clergyman and folklorist, renowned for his contribution to the preservation and understanding of Basque culture. Anchored in his deep interest in linguistics and folklore, his seminal work ‘Basque Legends; With an Essay on the Basque Language’ (1879) collects folklore from the Basque region and includes a significant scholarly essay on the Basque language that underscores its uniqueness and complexity. Webster’s scholarly approach combined textual analysis with a keen understanding of oral traditions, situating Basque folklore within wider European cultural narratives. His literary style often mirrored the didactic yet captivating tone of the tales he sought to preserve, positioning him as a mediator between Basque culture and the English-speaking world. Webster’s reverence for the subject is evident in his careful documentation and translation of stories that might otherwise have been lost to time. His work continues to be cited in studies of Basque linguistics and ethnology (Douglass & Bilbao, 2005), and remains a valuable resource for those interested in folklore and minority languages. Webster’s dedication to cultural preservation through literature signals his lasting impact on the field of folkloristics and positions him as a vital figure in the study of Basque heritage.