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  • The Book of Halloween: Origins, Folklore, and Traditions of Samhain by Ruth Edna Kelley book cover
  • The Book of Halloween: Origins, Folklore, and Traditions of Samhain by Ruth Edna Kelley book cover
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The Book of Halloween: Origins, Folklore, and Traditions of Samhain

by Ruth Edna Kelley

Halloween’s customs and historical roots

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AlbakiReads Editorial

Halloween’s customs and historical roots

Ruth Edna Kelley’s 1919 study traces Halloween from the Celtic festival of Samhain through Roman and Christian influences, placing familiar seasonal customs in a longer cultural history. Bonfires, costumes, and fortune-telling games provide points of entry into the book’s account of how traditions developed and changed. Its subject is both the history of the holiday and the folklore surrounding practices still associated with it.

Good fit for readers who enjoy

  • For readers interested in Halloween’s history and the origins of its customs.
  • For readers exploring Celtic festivals, folklore, and the development of seasonal traditions.

Themes

Samhain and Celtic traditionRoman and Christian influencesHalloween customsFolklore and cultural history

Based on publisher information and book metadata.

Book overview

A fascinating journey tracing the origins of one of our most enduring holidays, from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain through its transformation under Roman and Christian influences.

As one of the earliest books devoted entirely to Halloween, this work reveals the origins of many cherished customs. From bonfires illuminating the Autumnal nights to mischievous costumes and fortune-telling games, Ruth Edna Kelley sheds light on the cultural and historical significance of beloved traditions.

First published in 1919, The Book of Halloween remains an essential read for all those curious about the spirited past of October's most magical night.

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