Ring Around the Rosie: Debunking Plague Myths

Tales of Bedlam

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Could "Ring Around the Rosie" be a grim reminder of the 1665 plague, or is it just a playful children's rhyme with no dark undertones? Join me, Knob Twister, and my co-host, Sofa Sitter, as we unravel the tangled web of history, folklore, and linguistic twists behind this famous nursery rhyme. We challenge the widely accepted theory linking the rhyme to the Great Plague of London, dissecting symptoms, the supposed role of posies, and variations like the British version substituting "achoo" for "ashes." Our journey doesn't stop debunking myths; we reveal fascinating insights into the rhyme's historical and linguistic origins, shedding light on lesser-known interpretations and the true meaning of "posy."
But the fun doesn't end there! We also explore the many quirky versions of "Ring Around the Rosie" passed down through generations and cultures. From "a bottle full of posies" to the whimsically odd "husher, husher, cuckoo," we celebrate the rich tapestry of this timeless tune. We add a nostalgic, playful touch to our discussion by sharing our favorites and inviting you to do the same.
This episode is a replay from 2019-2021; please disregard any announcements during the episode.

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1. Ring Around the Rosie: Debunking Plague Myths (00:00:00)

2. The Origins of Nursery Rhymes (00:00:04)

3. Variations of Ring Around the Rosie (00:11:05)