The First Noel

3. The First Noel
Traditional English Folk Song
Davies Gilbert published 9 stanzas of this true folk song in the second edition of "Some Ancient
Christmas Carols" in 1823. The form of the story suggests medieval origins in the mystery play cycles.
The word "Noel" derives from Old French and Latin, meaning "belonging to a birth". The word
"Nowell" appears in Chaucer's Franklin's Tale". The poverty ofthe shepherds is contrasted with the
wealth ofthe Wise Men, suggesting that all classes come together "of one accord" to offer praise.