Sligo input to new book on the culture of Christmas
IN the spirit of the festive season, a captivating new book with a Sligo input has emerged to illuminate the culture of Christmas.
Renowned scholar Salvador Ryan, Professor of Ecclesiastical History at St Patrick’s Pontifical University, Maynooth has curated a captivating collection aptly titled 'Christmas and the Irish' inviting readers on a historic journey through Christmas pasts.
This anthology is not merely a compilation of tales; it's a celebration of the rich tapestry of Irish Christmas customs, beliefs, history, and folklore.
Professor Ryan, with his profound expertise in Irish studies, skilfully weaves together narratives that capture the essence of Yuletide in Ireland in bygone days.
Notably, the publication boasts a Sligo touch with contributions from local talents, storyteller Padraic Rooney and historian Melissa Melanephy.
Both Rooney and Melanephy's stories are set in Sligo town, with Rooney casting back a rueful eye on a memorable Christmas Eve in 1960s Sligo, while Melanephy recounts the social history of the early 1920s with the experience of prisoners in Sligo Gaol.
The collection's strength lies in its ability to seamlessly transition from serious historical analyses to light-hearted reflections, ensuring a balanced and engaging reading experience. Whether delving into the religious dimensions of Christmas, exploring folklore and traditions, or contemplating the festive experiences of the Irish diaspora, the miscellany promises to be a treasure trove of insights and anecdotes.
The book 'Christmas the Irish, A Miscellany' is available at Liber bookshop, Easons, and online from Wordwell Books.