Lecture
William Tyler
Monday 29.12.2025
William Tyler
New Year: History and Folklore
Monday 29.12.2025
How to watch
This lecture starts on 29 December at 5:00pm (UK).
Summary
The celebration of the New Year (1st January) is universal. In this presentation we investigate the Western origins and changes from Ancient Rome to the global internet and television spectacular of today, exploring common folklore themes marking the change from the old to the new year. We also ask why New Years is particularly strong in Scotland? Why England and America changed the calendar in the 18th century? And what is Mari Lwyd?
William Tyler
William Tyler has spent his entire professional life in adult education, beginning at Kingsgate College in 1969. He has lectured widely for many public bodies, including the University of Cambridge and the WEA, in addition to speaking to many clubs and societies. In 2009, William was awarded the MBE for services to adult education, and he has previously been a scholar in residence at the London Jewish Cultural Centre. Link to William’ s blog with recommended book lists for his Lockdown lectures.