Salvaging Celtic Spirituality at Halloween with Richard Kearney, Author of 'Salvage'
When:
Tuesday, Oct 31, 2023 6:00p -
7:45p
Tuesday, Oct 31, 2023 6:00p -
7:45p
Where:
Boston Public Library: Rabb Lecture Hall
700 Boylston Street
Boston, MA 02116
Admission:
FREE
Hosted by:
Categories:
Art, History, Lectures & Conferences
Event website:
https://bpl.bibliocommons.com/events/64f23f025a7c6130008f2973
David Leonard, president of the Boston Public Library, interviews author and philosopher Richard Kearney on the cultural and spiritual importance of nature and natural medicine as a primal power, the notion of divinity as a force running through all living things (panentheism), the challenge facing Ireland and other Celtic nations to embrace secular modernity while salvaging what is still precious in their ancient heritage, the powerful role of Ireland's 'islands' in contemporary literature and film, and the origin of Halloween in the ancient Celtic Festival of Samhain.
The event also features contributions by Noirin Ni Rian (singer), Fanny Howe (poet), and Sheila Gallagher (artist). There will also be an author signing facilitated by Trident Booksellers and Cafe.
Please register on this Eventbrite page.
Historical Note
Halloween originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to honor all saints. Soon, All Saints Day incorporated some of the traditions of Samhain. The evening before was known as All Hallows Eve, and later Halloween.
About the Book
Salvage is a story about the ancient transformative powers of Celtic wisdom and healing. The novel's twentieth century heroine, Maeve, is still in touch with inherited forces of sacred spirituality and nature, as she braves the seductions of the modern world.
About the Author
Richard Kearney is an Irish philosopher and writer who holds the Seelig Chair of Philosophy at Boston College. He has written many books on European philosophy, narrative imagination, and Irish culture, as well as a book of poetry and two previous novels, Sam’s Fall and Walking at Sea Level. Kearney is also director of the international Guestbook Project of Narrative Hospitality.
Accessibility Notice: We strive to make our events accessible. To request a disability accommodation and/or language services, please contact the Adult Programs Department at [email protected] or 617-859-2129 by October 12. Please allow at least two weeks to arrange for accommodations.
