# Of Burgstead and Its Folk and Its Neighbours explained — The Roots of the Mountains

> Chapter companion for The Roots of the Mountains by William Morris.

## What happens

This chapter introduces the valley of Burgstead, its geography, and the three main communities: the Dalesmen of Burgstead, the Woodland-Carles of Carlstead, and the Shepherd-Folk. It describes the landscape, the people's livelihoods, customs, and relationships, emphasizing the self-sufficient, peaceful life of the Dalesmen and their interdependence with the neighboring folk.

## Themes in this chapter

### Community and Kinship

The chapter details the interconnected lives of the Dalesmen, Woodland-Carles, and Shepherd-Folk, highlighting mutual support and kinship ties.

### Nature and the Wilderness

The valley's geography, the river, tarn, woods, and cliffs are described in detail, showing the people's deep connection to their natural surroundings.

### Tradition and Change

The Woodland-Carles preserve old tales and rune-craft, while the Dalesmen live in a timeless cycle of work and feast, yet are open to news from the outside world.

## Character check-ins

### Face-of-god

Introduced as a member of the Dalesmen, though not yet central to the narrative.

### Stone-face

Mentioned as a notable figure among the Dalesmen.

### Iron-face

Referred to as the Alderman, a leader in Burgstead.

### Hall-face

Listed among the prominent Dalesmen.

### Folk-might

Named as a member of the community.

### Sun-beam

Mentioned in passing as part of the folk.

## Key lines

> Once upon a time amidst the mountains and hills and falling streams of a fair land there was a town or thorp in a certain valley.

In a beautiful mountainous region, a small settlement existed in a valley.

_Opening of the chapter, setting the scene._

> They wrought with their hands and wearied themselves; and they rested from their toil and feasted and were merry: tomorrow was not a burden to them, nor yesterday a thing which they would fain forget: life shamed them not, nor did death make them afraid.

They worked hard, rested, and celebrated without anxiety about the past or future, living contentedly.

_Describes the Dalesmen's philosophy of life._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_roots_of_the_mountains_se/chapters/i-of-burgstead-and-its-folk-and-its-neighbours
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_roots_of_the_mountains_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_roots_of_the_mountains_se/chapters