Ballads of Mystery and Miracle and Fyttes of Mirth Popular Ballads of the Olden Times - Second Series

Step into a world where centuries‑old verses echo across mist‑shrouded hills and dim taverns. This collection brings together the most celebrated and the most obscure ballads of Scotland and England, all freshly transcribed from handwritten manuscripts by a meticulous editor who notes every variation. Readers will hear haunting tales of restless lovers, vengeful spirits, and heroic deeds, each accompanied by insightful commentary that reveals the cultural backdrop. The careful restoration of forgotten verses, including a rare Gaelic piece discovered by the editor, gives listeners a sense of uncovering a hidden treasure.

The anthology is organized into four lively sections—supernatural lore, sacred songs, clever riddles, and merry verses—so you can wander from eerie laments to playful repartee at will. Rich narration captures the rhythm and cadence of the original oral tradition, letting the music of the old ballads pulse through modern ears. Whether you love ghostly hauntings, moral parables, or light‑hearted jests, the collection offers a panoramic glimpse of the storytelling heart that shaped early popular poetry.