A Book of Old English Ballads
George Wharton Edwards
Read by LibriVox Volunteers
A Book of Old English Ballads offers a curated selection of traditional English ballads that capture the essence of the people’s voice through the ages. Compiled by George Wharton Edwards, this collection aims to introduce listeners to the rich tapestry of emotions, stories, and cultural heritage embedded in these timeless verses.
Spanning a variety of themes, from love and loss to heroism and folklore, these ballads showcase the dramatic power and poetic beauty that have resonated through generations. Each piece reflects the unique narrative style and lyrical quality that characterize the genre, inviting listeners to explore the depth of human experience.
Despite their historical roots, these ballads remain relevant, offering a refreshing perspective on the human condition. This collection serves not only as an introduction to a lesser-known literary tradition but also as a celebration of the enduring power of storytelling through song.
Chapters
Select a chapter to play
| 00 - Introduction | 26:25 | Read by Mike Harris | |
| 01 - Chevy Chace | 12:13 | Read by susanfrom | |
| 02 - King Cophetua and the Beggar-Maid | 5:54 | Read by ravenotation | |
| 03 - King Leir and his Three Daughters | 7:07 | Read by Michael Helgens | |
| 04 - Fair Rosamond | 7:53 | Read by Bridget Tallon | |
| 05 - Phillida and Corydon | 1:24 | Read by Patti Cunningham | |
| 06 - Fair Margaret and Sweet William | 3:56 | Read by Stephen Read | |
| 07 - Annan Water | 2:13 | Read by Patti Cunningham | |
| 08 - The Bailiff's Daughter of Islington | 3:03 | Read by Ruth Golding | |
| 09 - Barbara Allen's Cruelty | 1:52 | Read by ravenotation | |
| 10 - The Douglas Tragedy | 4:32 | Read by Leonard Wilson (1930-2024) | |
| 11 - Young Waters | 3:10 | Read by Leonard Wilson (1930-2024) | |
| 12 - Flodden Field | 2:43 | Read by Michael Helgens | |
| 13 - Helen of Kirkconnell | 1:49 | Read by Bridget Tallon | |
| 14 - Robin Hood and Allen-a-Dale | 5:41 | Read by Elizabeth Zaranka | |
| 15 - Robin Hood and Guy of Gisborne | 10:09 | Read by Patti Cunningham | |
| 16 - Robin Hood's Death and Burial | 4:11 | Read by Peter Yearsley | |
| 17 - The Twa Corbies | 1:29 | Read by Leonard Wilson (1930-2024) | |
| 18 - Waly, Waly, Love be Bonny | 1:58 | Read by Jamie | |
| 19 - The Nut-brown Maid | 13:15 | Read by Mike Harris | |
| 20 - The Fause Lover | 2:23 | Read by Kalynda | |
| 21 - The Mermaid | 2:24 | Read by susanfrom | |
| 22 - The Battle of Otterburn | 13:24 | Read by Stephen Read | |
| 23 - The Lament of the Border Widow | 2:04 | Read by susanfrom | |
| 24 - The Banks o' Yarrow | 3:17 | Read by Bridget Tallon | |
| 25 - Hugh of Lincoln | 3:50 | Read by drewmac | |
| 26 - Sir Patrick Spens | 5:41 | Read by drewmac |