1. English, Scottish, and Irish Ballads

2. 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

3. Oral Transmission  Word of mouth only  Early ballads had no written scores  Cannot trace authors or find original version of songs

4. Subject Matter  Everyday life of common folk  Themes: Tragic –Disappointed love –Jealousy –Revenge –Sudden disaster –Envy –Deeds of adventure, daring –Bravery –loyalty

5. 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

6. 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