What are literal ballads?

Literal ballads or "broadside ballads" are traditional narrative poems that were published on cheap printing sheets of paper called "broadsides" and sold on the streets of Europe during the 16th and 17th centuries. These ballads often covered sensational or current events, such as murders, disasters, and strange occurrences. They were typically sung or recited aloud by ballad singers or street performers to entertain the masses.

Here are some characteristics of literal ballads:

* Narrative Structure: Literal ballads tell stories in a narrative structure, describing a sequence of events in a straightforward and usually chronological manner.

* Sensational or Dramatic Content: These ballads often focus on dramatic and sensational subjects such as crimes, tragedies, love stories, and supernatural occurrences.

* Simplicity of Language: The language used is often simple and direct, with a focus on conveying the story without elaborate poetic devices.

* Rhyme and Meter: Literal ballads usually have a consistent rhyme scheme and a regular meter, making them easy to sing or recite.

* Appeal to the Common People: These ballads were widely popular among the lower classes and illiterate individuals who could not afford more expensive forms of entertainment.

* Cultural Importance: Literal ballads provide insight into the popular culture and societal concerns of the time. They reflect the interests, beliefs, and values of ordinary people during those periods.

Examples of famous literal ballads include "The Murder of Maria Marten" and "The Ballad of Chevy Chase." They served as a vital form of popular literature before the rise of novels and newspapers and played a significant role in shaping cultural narratives during the early modern period.