A Book of Cornwall

Name: A Book of Cornwall
Author: Sabine Baring-Gould

The work explores the rich history, culture, and geography of Cornwall, focusing on its saints, legends, and ecclesiastical foundations. It categorizes the saints into five groups based on their origins: members of the royal Dumnonian family, Irish-Welsh colonists, Irish settlers in West Cornwall, Welsh-Breton saints, and Breton importations. The text delves into the lives and contributions of these saints, detailing their roles in establishing churches and communities, as well as their interactions with local tribes and leaders. The narrative highlights the significance of holy wells, crosses, and the ecclesiastical organization that emerged alongside tribal structures. It discusses the methods of evangelization employed by the Celtic saints, their legal rights, and the cultural practices surrounding them, such as the concept of sanctuary and the power of ill-wishing. The text also addresses the historical context of Cornwall, including invasions, migrations, and the establishment of monastic communities. It recounts various legends associated with saints and their miraculous deeds, emphasizing the intertwining of history and myth in shaping Cornwall's identity. Additionally, the work examines the landscape of Cornwall, including its ancient camps, churches, and natural features, while reflecting on the decline of traditional practices and the impact of modernity on the region. The author provides insights into the local customs, folklore, and the enduring legacy of the saints, ultimately portraying Cornwall as a land steeped in spiritual and historical significance.

By Sabine Baring-Gould · First published 1899 · Genre: Travel Literature, Regional History, Folklore · 20 chapters · 107,605 words

First lines

A saint or squab pie -- The saints belong to five classes -- I. The members of the royal Dumnonian family -- II. Irish-Welsh colonists -- The invasion of Brecknock -- Brychan -- The invasion of Cornwall and Devon -- Murtogh Mac Earca -- III. Irish in West Cornwall -- IV. Welsh-Breton saints -- V. Pure Breton importations -- Ecclesiastical colonies -- Llans and cells -- Tribal organisation -- Ecclesiastical also tribal -- The sanctuary -- How a tribe was recruited -- Jurisdiction -- What a Celtic monastery was -- Rights exercised by the saints -- That of ill-wishing -- Missionary methods of the Celtic saints -- Illand and S. Bridget -- The power of the keys as the saints understood it -- Reciprocal rights -- The saint expected to curse the enemies of the secular tribe -- Asceticism -- A legal process carried into religion -- Story of the three clerks -- A higher idea of asceticism gained ground -- S. Columba and the nettles -- The saints and animals -- And children -- How they used their powers -- What they did for womankind -- The biographies, how far trustworthy -- The interest in knowing something of the founders of the Churches.

What this Textopian page supports

A Book of Cornwall is listed on Textopian as a novel by Sabine Baring-Gould, dated 1899 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Sabine Baring-Gould
Date: 1899 CE
Language: English
Genres: Travel Literature, Regional History, Folklore, Nature Writing, Memoir
Length: 107,605 words
Structure: 20 chapters, 1,453 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for A Book of Cornwall by Sabine Baring-Gould
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering A Book of Cornwall?
How does this novel by Sabine Baring-Gould fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Travel Literature first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Travel Literature — The book explores the landscapes, culture, and history of Cornwall, making it a primary work of travel literature.
Regional History — It provides insights into the historical context and local traditions of Cornwall, categorizing it as a regional history.
Folklore — The book includes local legends and folklore, reflecting the rich oral traditions of the region.
Nature Writing — Descriptive passages about the natural beauty of Cornwall align it with nature writing.