The Ingoldsby Legends are a true classic of Children's literature. They were penned by Richard Harris Barham (1788-1845), better known by his nom de plume; Thomas Ingoldsby. Barham was an English cleric of the Church of England, as well as a fanatic reader and writer. The stories were inspired by real legends, old mythology and ghost stories - mostly deliberately humorous parodies and pastiches of medieval folklore and poetry. This collection also includes several poems by the author, including 'The Poplar', 'Marie Mignot' and 'The Truants.' This edition of The Ingoldsby Legends is accompanied throughout by a series of dazzling colour and black and white illustrations - by a master of the craft; Arthur Rackham (1867-1939). One of the most celebrated painters of the British Golden Age of Illustration (which encompassed the years from 1850 until the start of the First World War), Rackham's artistry is quite simply, unparalleled. Throughout his career, he developed a unique style, combining haunting humour with dream-like romance. Presented alongside the text, his illustrations further refine and elucidate Barham's captivating storytelling.