Event Type : Tours, Talks & Walks

Death has been a source of grief and uncertainty for humanity throughout history, but it has also inspired a plethora of fascinating traditions. The covering of mirrors to prevent the departed spirit from seeing itself; the passing bell rung to assist the soul to heaven; the ‘sin eater’ who by eating and drinking absorbed the corpse’s sins – all of these were common approaches at one time or another. Taking evidence from history, archaeology and folklore, this talk explores English approaches to death and burial from the Norman conquest to the present day: ancient customs which have long since lapsed, others which have survived relatively unchanged, and new approaches such as eco-burials – and of course the impact of Covid-19 upon our way of dying. Weaving their way through ten centuries of funerary customs, we’ll see again and again the threads of affection and duty which tether the living to the dead, and oblige us to acknowledge our own mortality.

Helen Frisby obtained her PhD on Victorian funeral customs from the University of Leeds in 2009. She’s appeared on the History Channel and BBC Radio, and is the author of Traditions of Death and Burial (Bloomsbury: 2019) upon which this talk is based. Helen’s most recent research, conducted through the University of Bristol with Dr Stuart Prior, investigates the informal occupational culture of frontline cemetery staff. Helen is Secretary of the Association for the Study of Death & Society (ASDS) and a Council Member of the Folklore Society.

This talk will take place via Zoom. Ticket holders will be sent a link and password to join the zoom session on the day of the talk.

This documentary reflects on themes of loss, discovery, courage, and often success, broadly highlighting the contribution of the South Asian community on the economic and cultural diversity of the region.

Significant changes in the Commonwealth Act and key shifts in global politics during the late fifties, sixties and seventies impacted hugely on migrants already resident in the UK, as well those wanting to move here. Many South Asians sought new homes in Britain, compelled to relocate after political events in Africa.

Enjoy a cup of complimentary chai provided by Dishoom with the screening!

There are two screenings of the film, at 6pm and 7.30pm prompt, please book the desired timed ticket. Please arrive 10 minutes prior to the start of the screening

This project was made possible thanks to funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.