William Alexander Clouston facts for kids
William Alexander Clouston (1843 – 23 October 1896) was a Scottish folklorist from the Orkney Islands. He lived in the 1800s and was known for his deep interest in old stories and traditions from around the world.
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The Life of William Alexander Clouston
Growing Up in Orkney
William Alexander Clouston was born in 1843 in a town called Stromness in the Orkney Islands. His family had a long history in the Orkneys, going back to the ancient Norse people. When he was younger, William worked in business. He spent time in big cities like Glasgow and London, learning about trade and commerce.
A Career in Words
Even though he started in business, William soon found his true passion: writing and literature. He decided to leave his commercial jobs to become a journalist and writer. From 1871 to 1879, he worked as an editor for several local newspapers in Scotland. He also wrote articles for well-known newspapers like the Glasgow Herald and the Evening Times.
Exploring Stories and Folklore
William Alexander Clouston was especially interested in stories and folklore from different cultures, particularly those from the East. He spent a lot of time studying ancient tales and myths. He even helped a famous explorer and writer, Sir R. F. Burton, with his special edition of "Supplemental Arabian Nights." Clouston contributed by finding similar stories and different versions of the tales that were in the first few volumes of Burton's work. His dedication helped people learn more about the rich history of storytelling.
