The Resurgence of Folklore in the Digital Age
From Robin Hood in Sherwood Forest to mermaids swimming off the coast of Cornwall, every place has its own folklore that captures the imagination of people. Now, with the help of social media, more and more of these myths and legends are being discussed online, engaging a new generation of enthusiasts.
BAFTA-winning actor and writer Charlie Cooper, known for his work on the critically-acclaimed BBC series This Country, is the host of a new BBC series exploring myths across the UK. Cooper, who grew up in rural Gloucestershire surrounded by ghost stories and local traditions, believes there is a resurgence of interest in folklore among young people.
According to Cooper, social media has played a significant role in keeping folklore alive and thriving. Online communities dedicated to folk traditions are growing, with platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok becoming hubs for sharing stories, myths, and urban legends.
In his BBC series, “Charlie Cooper’s Myth Country,” the star delves into community events, metal detector groups searching for ancient relics, and even makes his own crop circle. Cooper believes that sharing stories about folklore can bring communities together and give people a sense of belonging to the landscape.
Matthew Cheeseman, a professor in writing and folklore at the University of Derby, suggests that young people are drawn to folklore because it provides a sense of rootedness and connection to their environment. TikTok creator Siân Powell, who specializes in Cornish and Welsh folklore, has seen a surge in interest in folklore on the platform, especially during the pandemic.
Cooper emphasizes that folklore is always evolving and changing, with modern interpretations of traditional practices like Morris dancing. He believes that folklore is not just about ancient traditions but also about the process of sharing stories with each other, whether it’s in person or over a screen.
As folklore continues to adapt to the digital age, urban legends shared on the internet have become a new form of folklore, proving that stories don’t have to be ancient to hold value. With platforms like social media and streaming services, folklore is finding new ways to captivate and connect people in the modern world.
You can watch Charlie Cooper’s Myth Country on BBC iPlayer to explore the rich tapestry of folklore across the UK.
