Folk astronomy and how it has been influenced by the printed word

Andres Kuperjanov, Estonian Literary Museum. cps@folklore.ee

The systematic collection of folk astronomy material was initiated in the late 19th century by Jakob Hurt, but the earliest printed texts on celestial objects date back to the 17th century. This is an overview about materials connected to Estonian folk astronomy to the end of nineteenth century: published in handbooks and studies, manuscripts and also starting systematic folklore collection in the end of observed period, Printed calendars, lutherian church, schoolbooks and mechanical clocks had also decreasing influences to the folk astronomy.

Research was supported by the Center of Excellence in Estonain Studies (European Regional Development Fund) and IRG 22-5.