Introduction

Many nursery rhymes have been passed down through generations, often accompanied by stories of specific historical events or people. The popular belief that nursery rhymes such as 'Ring a Ring o' Roses' and 'Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary' are based on specific historical figures has been widespread, but how valid are these claims?

Understanding the Misconception

In most cases, the claims made about these nursery rhymes being based on specific historical events or people are largely debunked. These claims are more often part of urban legends rather than historical fact.

For instance, 'Ring a Ring o' Roses' is not a reference to the Great Plague, and 'Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary' is not about Queen Mary I of England. Folklorists, experts in the study of folk traditions, dismiss these claims as mere superstition. Catherine Elwes Thomas, a Boston resident, was one of the earliest pioneers of this myth-making, publishing a book in 1930 titled 'The Real Personages of Mother Goose.' In her book, she linked nursery rhymes to historical figures and events without any credible evidence or scholarly foundation.

Real Connections: Cases Where Nursery Rhymes Refer to Historical Figures

Despite the general skepticism, some nursery rhymes do indeed have historical bases, though they are not as widely known as the rhymes often associated with them. Here are a few examples:

Elsie Marley

'Elsie Marley,' a nursery rhyme, refers to Elsie Marley, an innkeeper in County Durham. This connection provides a more tangible link between a nursery rhyme and a real person.

Little General Monk

'Little General Monk' is a rhyme believed to reference a 17th-century soldier and politician. The name 'Little General' is thought to be a nickname given to an individual in this historical period.

William and Mary, George and Anne

'William and Mary, George and Anne,' a rhyme, is believed to refer to the daughters and sons-in-law of James II. However, the real names and identities behind these characters do not align with the popular mythologies surrounding the nursery rhymes.

Doctor Fell and the Duke of York

'Doctor Fell' is a 17th-century Oxford scholar, and the rhyme 'The Grand old Duke of York' originally referred to him rather than the son of George III. The actual content of the rhyme was a lampoon on an unsuccessful military action by Henri IV of France in 1610.

Further Reading and Resources

If you are deeply interested in the subject, the best and most interesting book to read is 'The Oxford Dictionary of Nursery Rhymes' by Peter and Iona Opie. Although it may be pricey, good reference libraries will likely have a copy. This book provides extensive historical and cultural insights into the origins of nursery rhymes, debunking many of the myths and providing a solid foundation for understanding the true history behind these beloved children's songs.

By delving into the history and evolution of nursery rhymes, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of culture and storytelling that has been passed down through generations.