A. L. McClanan, "Griffinology: The Griffin's Place in Myth, History and Art" (Reaktion, 2024)

A. L. McClanan, "Griffinology: The Griffin's Place in Myth, History and Art" (Reaktion, 2024)

Author: Marshall Poe December 14, 2024 Duration: 40:43
A. L. McClanan's Griffinology: The Griffin's Place in Myth, History and Art (Reaktion, 2024) is a fascinating exploration of the mythical creature's many depictions in human culture. Drawing on a wealth of historical and literary sources, this book shows how the griffin has captured the imagination of people for over 5,000 years, representing power, transcendence and even divinity. It explores the history and symbolism of griffins in art, from their appearances in ancient Egyptian magic wands to medieval bestiaries, and from medieval coats of arms to corporate logos today. The use of the griffin as a symbol of power and protection is surveyed throughout history and into modern times. Beautifully illustrated, this book should appeal to all those interested in monsters, magic and the mystical, as well as art and history. Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/folkore

Hosted by Marshall Poe, New Books in Folklore is part of a much larger academic conversation happening across the New Books Network, a sprawling audio library built for the curious public. This particular channel focuses on the stories, traditions, and beliefs that cultures weave into their daily lives. Each episode features an in-depth conversation where an author discusses their newly published work on folklore with a knowledgeable interviewer, delving into the research and ideas behind the book. You’ll hear about everything from contemporary legends and digital storytelling to ancient myths and material culture, all explored with scholarly depth and genuine curiosity. It’s a space where academic work becomes accessible, moving beyond the journal article or monograph into a lively, direct exchange. For anyone fascinated by why we tell tales, how traditions evolve, or what our shared rituals reveal about us, this podcast offers a front-row seat to the latest scholarship. The broader network, with its many specialized channels, underscores a commitment to making expert knowledge freely available. Tuning in provides a unique form of continuing education, one thoughtful discussion at a time.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

New Books in Folklore
Podcast Episodes
Francis Young, "Fairies: A History" (John Wiley & Sons, 2026) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:40
Many people think they know what fairies are, what a fairy looks like, and how a fairy is expected to behave. Dr. Francis Young's Fairies: A History (Polity, 2026) demonstrates that the truth about belief in fairies is f…
Jessica Campbell, "The Brontës and the Fairy Tale" (Ohio UP, 2024) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:50
The Brontës and the Fairy Tale (Ohio UP, 2024) by Dr. Jessica Campbell is the first comprehensive study devoted to the role of fairy tales and folklore in the work of Charlotte, Emily, Anne, and Branwell Brontë. It inter…