Child's 10-volume work was published between 1882 and 1898, and it's still fascinating reading. His notes tell the stories of his 305 ballads in great depth, but this is not dry, academic verbiage that puts you to sleep. He gives only the English versions of the ballads, but he tells how they are related to ballads and stories from many lands. If you haven't read Child, pick at least one of his ballads and read through everything he's written on it. You'll be amazed.
-Joe Offer-