Death has been a source of grief and uncertainty for humanity throughout history, but it has also been the inspiration for a plethora of fascinating customs and much human creativity. This talk with Dr Helen Frisby, author of the Shire book 'Traditions of Death and Burial', explores English death and burial customs from the Norman Conquest right through to the present day and the impact of Covid-19. From winding-sheets to funeral bells, angels to the Alexa Ghostbot, together we’ll discover how ritual continues helping us to relate to the dead, in ways which are at once innovative and longstanding.
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About the Speaker
Helen Frisby
Helen has taught history at the University of the West of England, Bristol, and funeral directing at the University of Bath where she’s also a Visiting Research Fellow. Hon. Secretary of The Folklore Society, Helen has appeared on The History Channel and BBC radio. She continues to research and publish on topics relating to death, funerals and bereavement, past and present.
03/10/2026 Saturday
14:00 - 15:00
Online
Talk on Zoom by Helen Frisby, expert in death, funerals and bereavement, past and present.
Location
Online