Print this page Halloween: History, Myth and Modern Culture

Halloween is far more than costumes and trick-or-treating. Its origins stretch back to ancient seasonal rituals, religious observances and centuries of folklore and superstition. This course traces the evolution of Halloween from its early roots through to its modern global popularity. Along the way, participants will explore themes of death, the supernatural, fear, celebration and the changing meanings attached to the festival over time. The course also considers how literature, film and popular culture have transformed Halloween into one of the world's most recognisable cultural events. Suitable for anyone curious about history, mythology, folklore and cultural traditions.

DELIVERY MODE

Hybrid (face to face and online simultaneously)

COURSE RESOURCES

Suggested reading

• Lisa Morton: "Trick or Treat: A History of Halloween"

COURSE OUTLINE

• Exploration of the origins of Celtic Samhain
• The Catholic (Christian) tradition of All Souls Day. How it fits into Christian teaching
• The development of commercialised modern Halloween

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students should be able to

• Understand the tradition of Celtic Samhain
• Trace the development of Catholic All Souls' Day from ancient tradition
• Understand how the current Trick or Treat culture was created