Halloween Folklore and Ghost Stories

About this book

Halloween Folklore and Ghost Stories examines the history and folklore of Allhallowstide, treating Halloween as a season rather than a single night. Brice Stratford considers the customs, beliefs and stories gathered around the dead, including haunted houses, the Devil of Woodstock and the Richmond ghosts.

The book also follows the traditions of tricking and treating, souling, soul cakes and regional plays, before turning to bonfires, tar barrels, Guy Fawkes Night ghosts and local festivities. Witches, pixies, protective practices and divination receive attention alongside harvest foods such as groaty pudding, parkin, toffee and tharf cake. Turnips, pumpkins and Jack-o’-lanterns complete this account of British Halloween lore.