“The Carnal and the Crane”

Description

A carnal (crow) and a crane discuss various stories of Jesus, such as the roasted cock that crowed, the miraculous harvest of grain, and the adoration of the animals. (These accounts often became separated in tradition.)

Historical references

• 4 B.C.E. -- Death of Herod the Great, whose actions motivated much of the plot of this song

Cross references

• cf. "Saint Stephen and Herod" (plot)

References

1. Child 55, "The Carnal and the Crane" (1 text)
2. Bronson 55, "The Carnal and the Crane" (3 versions)
3. Leather, pp. 188-189, "The Carnal and the Crane" (1 text, 1 tune)
4. OBB 102, "The Carnal and the Crane" (1 text)
5. OBC 53, "The Carnal and the Crane"; 54; "King Herod and the Cock"; 55, "The Miraculous Harvest" (3 texts, 3 tunes) {#53=Bronson's #1; compare #3; #55=Bronson's #3; this melody is said to be the English hymnal tune "Capel"}
6. DT 55, PHARMKNG* PHARMKN2*
7. Roud #306
8. BI, C055