Why did 19th-century collectors sometimes change folk songs when publishing them?

During the 19th century, urban folklorists and collectors often altered or "corrected" folk songs when transcribing them from live performances to ensure they conformed to expected musical and social norms before publication.1

These collectors, who were often part of the urban intelligentsia, were frequently motivated by the rise of nationalism and a desire to preserve traditional village culture. By editing these songs, they sought to emphasize the national character and perceived historical significance of the material for a broader, urban audience. This practice was distinct from the work of later scholars, such as Béla Bartók, who prioritized accurate transcription in musical notation.213