To be held on 20 November 2024
Early Christians celebrated Christmas at the same time as the ancient Romans were feasting and partying for their pagan Saturnalia festival. Many of the pagan habits were therefore absorbed into our Christmas traditions. Present-giving, holly and even party-hats all have their origins in this 2000-year-old party. This talk will revel in artwork that is ancient and modern as we unwrap the images and stories behind our festive season.
Gillian Lovell
After graduating with 2-1 (Hons) in Latin and Ancient History from Exeter University, Gillian worked in BBC Television and went on to become an award-winning freelance writer, author, national and international public speaker and broadcaster, specialising in archaeology, prehistory and in the Greek and Roman eras. She is a lecturer at York University and has spoken at the British Museum and on TV and Radio (including BBC News Channel, BBC World Service, R2 and R4 programmes such as ‘Today’ and ‘Broadcasting House’ and a Sky History series). Her publications include Visiting the Past: A guide to finding and understanding Britain’s Archaeology and Roman Britain. Forthcoming Latin Yesterday, Today and For Ever, and A Mediterranean Tour: Not just a Load of Old Stones. She teaches adult education courses in Latin, archaeology and ancient history and has lectured widely on cruises and tours and for museums such as the British Museum and Ashmolean, national press, universities, literary festivals, and diverse societies including Classical Associations, the U3A and the National Trust. Covid-19 provided Gillian with the chance to create her successful branded series of The Muddy Archaeologist Online Courses; now you can explore ancient history, archaeology and Latin with her regardless of where you are in the world.
