Wassailing The British Midwinter Blessing Custom Paperback Book by Simon Reed

Steeped in over a thousand years of history, Wassailing is a captivating and vibrant element of British folklore and tradition. From the Apple Wassails of Devon and Somerset to the Doll Wassails of Yorkshire, this ancient blessing ritual has evolved to touch all levels of society, from humble farmworkers to noble Lords, even playing a role in four plots to assassinate reigning monarchs. In this book, Simon Reed, author of The Cornish Traditional Year, delves into every facet of Wassailing, aiming to inspire readers to revive and celebrate this rich and meaningful tradition.

Paperback Edition: Gloss laminate cover

Edition:  Demy format 216 x 138mm

Pagination: 132 pages, 17 illustrations and figures

Contents:

Introduction

Origins and Development of the Wassail
Wassail in Legend and Beyond
The Wassail Develops
The Visit Wassail
Crop Wassailing
Ashen Faggot Wassail
The Wassail Bowl
Wassail Dolls
The Wassail Today
Our Journey Through Wassailing

Appendix A – Specimens of Wassail songs
Appendix B – Locations of known Wassail traditions