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In this podcast episode, host Gina explores the fascinating history and cultural context of the sea shanty 'Blow the Man Down.' Despite not being a traditional nursery rhyme, this shanty often appears in children's programming. Sea shanties, rich with maritime terminology, were used by sailors to coordinate tasks and boost morale. The episode details various types of shanties and their specific functions on ships. It also highlights the significant contributions of Afro-Caribbean and African-American sailors to the genre. The host draws parallels between sea shanties and nursery rhymes through their repetition, cultural transmission, and didactic functions, arguing that their context in modern use blurs the lines between the two. The episode concludes with resource recommendations for further exploration of sea shanties.


00:00 Introduction to Sea Shanties
01:48 Exploring 'Blow the Man Down'
02:34 Listening to Historical Recordings
07:02 Types and Functions of Sea Shanties
08:19 Cultural and Historical Insights
11:24 Sea Shanties vs. Nursery Rhymes
13:52 Modern Adaptations and Educational Uses
15:57 Conclusion and Further Resources

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