Playing with Fear: Monsters, Myths, and Mayhem
Throughout history and across cultures, humans have been haunted by a host of terrifying figures, from ghosts, witches, and monsters to mall-invading zombies and evil clowns. Why, then, do we find it so entertaining to intentionally use these to scare ourselves? Join Dr. Peter Harle (Art History) for an exploration of Halloween haunted houses, divination games, legend trips, cryptid tourism, monster parades, and other forms of creepy fun.
This presentation will be held virtually via Zoom. Following the lecture, guests will be able to engage in a Q&A with Dr. Harle.
Presenter:
Dr. Peter Harle is a core member of the Religious Studies program at the University of Minnesota, and serves as the undergraduate advisor for the departments of Anthropology, Art History, and Philosophy. He has taught a wide range of courses on folklore, religion, foodways, mythology, and traditional arts. Dr. Harle’s research has centered on the overlap between lived religion and material artistry, ranging from food offerings and celebratory meals to cemetery art, home altars, restaurant and grocery shrines, and divination games. He also serves as a board member for Grassroots Culture Minnesota, an organization that promotes and documents arts, folklore, and folklife from many traditional cultures in Minnesota.
Dark Reflections: A Scholarly Series on Horror, Folklore, Death, and the Macabre
Oct 28 - Nov 1. Confront your fears and discover the scholarly side of the supernatural through this Halloween event series. Join us for events, both virtual and in-person, that promises to enlighten, entertain, and send shivers down your spine.