Santal Folk Tales   By: A. Campbell

Santal Folk Tales by A. Campbell is a captivating collection of stories that paints a vivid picture of the Santal people's rich cultural heritage. Campbell's meticulous research and dedication in collecting and preserving these tales shine through in this beautifully compiled book.

The book introduces readers to the Santal community, a marginalized indigenous group residing in India. Campbell skillfully showcases their deep-rooted folklore and oral traditions, providing us with a glimpse into their beliefs, customs, and way of life. The tales are centred around themes such as creation myths, morality, love, bravery, and the triumph of good over evil.

What makes this book truly exceptional is Campbell's ability to authentically capture the essence of these tales. Each story is expertly translated, preserving the Santal language's nuances and ensuring that readers get a true taste of the folklore. The footnotes and explanations further aid in understanding the cultural context, fostering a greater appreciation for these age-old narratives.

One of the highlights of Santal Folk Tales is its engaging storytelling style. Campbell's prose effortlessly transports readers to a world where animals talk, supernatural beings roam the Earth, and moral lessons abound. The narratives are replete with vivid imagery and descriptive language, making it easy to visualize the scenes and immerse oneself in this captivating folklore.

Moreover, the book offers valuable insights into the Santal people's collective consciousness and their perspective on life. The tales provide a glimpse into their worldview, their reverence for nature, and their emphasis on community values. Reading these stories gives readers a newfound respect for the Santal people and their rich cultural tapestry.

However, one minor drawback of the book is that it does not provide an extensive introduction or background on the Santal community itself. While the footnotes offer some information, a more comprehensive overview of their history and traditions would have been greatly appreciated.

Overall, Santal Folk Tales by A. Campbell is an enchanting compilation that brings to life the Santal people's folklore and traditions. It serves as an important cultural document, preserving and celebrating a heritage that might otherwise be lost in time. Whether one is interested in folklore, anthropology, or simply a lover of captivating stories, this book offers a delightful and enlightening reading experience.

First Page:

Of late years the Folk tales of India have been the subject of much study and research, and several interesting collections of them have been published. But I am not aware that as yet the folk lore of the Santals, has received the attention which it deserves. The Santals as a people, have, to a remarkable degree, succeeded in resisting the subtle Hinduising influences to which they have long been exposed, and to which such a large number of aboriginal tribes have succumbed. They have retained their language, institutions, tribal organization, and religion almost intact. Their traditions show the jealousy with which these have been guarded, and the suspicion and distrust with which contact with their Aryan neighbours was regarded. The point at which they have been most accessible to outward influence and example, is in their relations with the aboriginal tribes, who in a more or less degree have merged themselves in Hinduism... Continue reading book >>