The inimitable Professor Hutton is the author of sixteen books on subjects ranging from ancient and modern paganism in Britain to Siberian shamanism and Medieval history. For this Catalyst Club special he’ll be taking us on a fascinating and enlightening journey around the wheel of the year, looking at the traditional festivals of Britain and Ireland – those observed from the dawn of history to the present – and the customs and moods which have characterised them.
What are the true roots of Christmas, Easter and the winter and summer solstice rituals? Why do we light bonfires in November, eat chocolate bunnies in spring and go carol-singing at Yuletime?
What influence have Christianity and modernity had on our major ancient festivals? Can we still honour these festivals during lockdown?
Ronald Hutton is the senior Professor of History in the University of Bristol, and a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society, the Society of Antiquaries, the Learned Society of Wales, and the British Academy. He is the historian on the board of trustees which runs English Heritage, and chair of the Blue Plaques panel which awards commemorative plaques to historic buildings.