6 Watery Folklore Wonders

Tales from the depths via the Folklore Thursday team

With such vast amounts of the world covered by seas and rivers, it’s hardly surprising that many, many stories have grown up around them over the millennia. Countless numbers of peoples have depended on the sea for their lives and livelihoods throughout the history of mankind, and it’s this very fact that links societies and cultures from across the globe. In the folklore of all continents there are tales and beliefs about seas and rivers, with striking similarities the world over.

All powerful, the sea gives life but also takes it away, inspiring fear, awe and reverence in equal measure. Mermaids lurk beneath the waves, while sirens sing their tempting songs, luring the unwary to their watery ends. From ghost ships and sea monsters, river spirits and waterfalls, Treasury Of Folklore: Seas & Rivers explores the depths of belief about the sea, exploring such common themes as adventure, love, loss, betrayal and hope. Join us now, if you dare, for a whirlwind voyage through some of the most wonderful folktales, myths and legends of the oceans from around the world.