The victim is described, sure. But their memory? Not so much - they get a line maybe. Then a dozen stanzas about the murderer. These ballads are dated, tone-deaf and disturbing.
It's rather inappropriate that we don't change names of victims when they are no longer relevant to active investigation. I would rather die in a slip and fall accident than become famous and have details of my life explored by becoming notable for being the victim of an asshat, thank you very much.
In this case the (alleged) murderer was even tracked down and brought back for a second trial, years later. Songs can keep rage alive for a community.
They're great stories, and it's not strange at all.
Good article.