In this episode, Craig is joined by his Wyrd Wessex co host Andy and storyteller Eileen Budd to delve into the ancient art of oral tradition. They discuss Eileen's fascinating journey from museum worker to travelling folk storyteller, and they get a peek inside her unique "Travelling Folk Museum."
Highlights include:
- Village Stories: The importance of working-class folklore and how it differs from "top-down" historical narratives.
- The Power of Objects: Eileen shares how everyday items, like a simple oil lamp or native herbs, can hold incredible stories. She also recounts a poignant experience with a young school pupil and a "cruisie lamp."
- A Family Affair: Discover how Eileen's legally blind childhood fostered a unique ability to listen and remember, leading to a passion for the stories passed down by her family.
- At Home With The Picts: A deep dive into Eileen's podcast about the Picts, exploring her fascination with their mysterious history and her interdisciplinary approach to understanding their culture.
- Cryptid Creatures: A debate on favourite cryptids, from the Loch Ness Monster and werewolves to the elusive Beast of Gevaudan. Eileen shares a chilling story of her parents' encounter with Nessie.
- The Viking Age Diet: Andy and Eileen discuss the challenges of a Viking Age diet and what modern comforts they'd miss most
- A Muffinier?! Eileen reveals the weirdest item in her kitchen, a very specific utensil with a wonderfully decadent name.
- Worst Food Challenge: The worst food ever tasted is revealed as a salted dried plum from a '90s "Bushtucker Trial" gone wrong.
- Upcoming Projects: Eileen shares what's next for her, including a BBC project, a series of events on the folklore of seaweed, time, and food, and her work with the International Storytelling Festival.
This is a fantastic chat about the magic of storytelling and how our shared histories connect us.
Find more of Eileen's amazing work on her website at linktr.ee/eileenbudd, on Instagram at @EileenBudd, and be sure to check out her podcasts, Scottish Folk and At Home With The Picts.
For Viking age & Halfling recipes and ideas check out my 'Eat Like A Viking!' & 'Eat Like A Halfling!' cookbooks or visit my website www.saxonforager.co.uk
Get your own Merch from my Redbubble store. www.redbubble.com/people/saxonforageruk/shop
Get in touch about the show: Email saxonforager@pm.me
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