Reading Material 11　Swedish Folklore

Sweden is a land of contrasts.In the north，where forests fade into frozen ground，the influence of tradition and folklore is strong.In the milder，more fertile south，the customs are basically those of continental Europe.

In Sweden，legends exist in people's everyday life.Hunting legends，for example，tell how men have been turned into beasts by magic.It is thought unlucky to see a hare in the morning but to meet a wolf or a bear is an omen that hunting will be good.

And there are some ancient customs about birth.When a child is born，the women of the family must carry it three times around its parents' hearth and then examine it for birthmarks.A child is covered in the membrane means it will always be accompanied by a guardian spirit.It is feared that children who lack the protection of a guardian spirit may be stolen by witches and turned into disembodied spirits.

A country wedding in Sweden is also very interesting.It is celebrated with traditional festivities.The bridegroom must formally ask for the bride's hand in the barn，because this is where the dowry is stored.On the wedding day the women of the family help the bride to dress in national costume，which includes silver jewelry and a bridal crown.Meanwhile friends and male relations wait in the kitchen，drinking beer.When the bride is ready，all the relatives and guests form a procession，which is led by young men on horseback.They meet the groom's procession at the church and greetings，symbolizing the kinship which now unites the two families，are exchanged.When the wedding service ends，the guests go to the bride's house for the marriage feast.