Living Traditions

This book approaches French folklore not as a collection of quaint curiosities from the past, but as living traditions that continue to evolve and influence contemporary culture. In Brittany, the fest-noz (night festival) keeps ancient Celtic music and dance alive. In Provence, the santons (little saints) of Christmas nativity scenes preserve folk traditions in clay. Urban legends spread through social media give birth to new mythologies in Paris and Marseille.

We'll explore how these stories serve multiple purposes: - Identity and Belonging: Regional folklore helps communities maintain distinct identities within the French Republic - Moral Instruction: Many tales carry lessons about proper behavior, social relationships, and respect for nature - Historical Memory: Legends often preserve memories of real events, from Viking raids to plague outbreaks to resistance against oppression - Entertainment: At their heart, these are stories meant to captivate, frighten, amuse, and inspire