Page:Folk-lore - A Quarterly Review. Volume 9, 1898.djvu/90

 66 Reviews.

Christianity, but also for its evolution. It is here, of course, and in the following chapter on survivals in Christendom, that his theological offence is rankest. If, looking at the matter from a purely scientific point of view, we are indifferent to the theological offence, we are by no means unconcerned on the question whether the explanation of religion (as above defined) be accurate. Mr. Allen does not pretend in any one instance to have proved his points. He only claims to have made out a prima facie case for inquiry ; and the further volumes with which he proposes to fol- low up this work will contain his reasonings and proofs in detail. On the importance of the issues raised, on the novelty and in- genuity of some of the author's hypotheses, and on the ability with which they are set forth, no unprejudiced reader can have any doubt. The cause of truth has much to gain by the exposi- tion of every new theory, whether ultimately established or not. We welcome the book, therefore, and commend it to students, as the first instalment of a serious attempt at a solution of problems that have hitherto baffled all efforts, without, for the present, fol- lowing the example of critics in pronouncing upon evidence as yet only indicated. ^

Two things we regret. First, that even in this preliminary sur- vey the reader has not been assisted by reference to chapter and verse of the authorities cited, an omission which the author en- gages to rectify in the detailed volumes to follow. Secondly, that " the science of comparative mythology and folklore " is spoken of as if comparative mythology comprised no more than the doc- trines of Professor Max Miiller and Sir G. W. Cox, and as if folk- lore were simply an appendage of it. Whether defined as the science of tradition, or as the science of survivals of savagery into civilisation, folklore supplies Mr. Allen with a very large part of his material ; and we feel sure this has only to be pointed out to ensure a more generous and accurate recognition at his hands.

' It may be noted that some detached portions of the argument have been previously published in periodicals, and that the substance of the chapter on Sacred Trees is treated more fully in the author's excursus appended to his dainty translation of the Atfis of Catullus. But to appreciate the real force of these detached portions, they should be read in their place in the general argument. The excursus to the Aiiis, however, will well repay perusal in extettso, and for the student it lias the invaluable recommendation of giving the authorities.