"a real cultural phenomenon for which 'The Tradition' (capitalized or otherwise) is, however, not a suitable name?"

Precisely the point I was making when I posted this:

"I've come to the conclusion that, as we have to keep asking the question and never get a satisfactory answer, 'The Tradition' does not actually exist. Traditions exits, as do legends, myths, songs and stories - all part of our history and social background. I don't know who invesnted the idea of 'The Tradition', maybe someone who wanted to give a context, or historical repectability to their delving into things folkloric."

As to: "Never mind contributors" drinking habits;" maybe you need to stop taking yourself so seriously.