Emmanuel Cosquin (1841-1919): A Pioneer in Folklore Studies
Emmanuel Cosquin was a prominent French folklorist best known for his groundbreaking work on folktales. Born in 1841, he initially studied law before transitioning to journalism and eventually dedicating his life to the study of folklore.
Key Contributions:
- Popular Tales of Lorraine: Cosquin's most famous work, this collection of folktales from the Lorraine region of France provided rich material for his theories.
- Indian Origin Theory: Based on his analysis of Lorraine folktales, Cosquin proposed the controversial theory that European folktales originated in India. This idea sparked significant debate and discussion among folklorists.
- Methodological Approach: His meticulous collection and analysis of folktales established a foundation for the systematic study of folklore.
Additional Facts:
- Cosquin was a prolific writer, contributing articles to various journals and newspapers.
