The Aran jumper as myth and merchandise

What is it about?

This article explains the resilience of myths surrounding Aran knitting - such as the story of a drowned fisherman who is identified by his clothing - in light of migration from, and tourism to, Ireland. It places the Aran jumper in the context of other textiles whose global journeys are fueled by ideas about the 'authenticity' of local vernacular craft (for example, Scottish tartan or Malian bogolan cloth).

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Why is it important?

Rather than focusing on the inaccuracy of widely held beliefs about Aran knitting, or restating known facts about the history of the craft, this article considers why particular myths about it emerged and persist.