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Published byFerdinand McCoy Modified over 9 years ago
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English, Scottish, and Irish Ballads
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Definition Narrative songs about the adventures of ordinary people and legendary heroes Known today as “popular,” “traditional,” or “folk” Originated in Medieval times – 15 th century mostly Came from the traditions of the common people
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Oral Transmission Word of mouth only Early ballads had no written scores Cannot trace authors or find original version of songs
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Subject Matter Everyday life of common folk Themes: Tragic –Disappointed love –Jealousy –Revenge –Sudden disaster –Envy –Deeds of adventure, daring –Bravery –loyalty
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Story-telling Devices Simple, direct narrative Single incident related in dramatic fashion Not much attention to characterization or description Little or no background information given Story developed through dialogue Narrative hinted at, not detailed Sometimes must guess what happens between stanzas or who is speaking
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More Story-telling Devices Written in regular meter and rhyme Refrain: Last line or two of each stanza repeated repeated Incremental repetition Repetition of previous line or lines with slight variation each time Musical, meant to be sung One voice on stanzas, group joins on refrain Ballad – French word that means “to dance” People used to dance to them
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