Modern Greek Folklore and Ancient Greek Religion: A Study in Survivals

"Modern Greek Folklore and Ancient Greek Religion: A Study in Survivals" by John Cuthbert Lawson is a scholarly exploration into the enduring echoes of ancient Greek religious practices within modern Greek folklore. It is an early 20th-century study, where the author unveils connections between current-day customs and ancient beliefs, thus showing the preservation of age-old traditions. The author begins by sharing the origins of this work and his time spent in Greece collecting folklore. Lawson expresses his appreciation to the local villagers who, even without knowing it, helped his research. He lays out his plan to study the links between modern Greek customs and ancient traditions, providing a fresh viewpoint on Greek religion and culture. The tone of the book is both academic and appreciative, as Lawson recognizes the importance of the people as well as the customs.