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Internationally renowned expert to discuss myth and memory of the Titanic

Author: Communications

Posted on Mar 11, 2014

Category: UNB Fredericton , UNB Saint John

Dr. Leon Litvack, professor of Victorian studies at Queen’s University Belfast in Northern Ireland, will deliver the 2014 W. C. Desmond Pacey Memorial Lecture on Tuesday, March 18 in Saint John and Wednesday, March 19 in Fredericton. 

He will present “Titanic, Myth, and Memory” on both University of New Brunswick campuses at 5:30 p.m. with a reception beginning at 5 p.m.

Saint John: Tuesday, March 18 at 5:30 p.m. | Oland Hall, Room 104 

Fredericton: Wednesday, March 19 at 5:30 p.m. | Alfred G. Bailey Auditorium, Tilley Hall, Room 102

This illustrated lecture will consider why the Titanic has been a source of universal interest as an object to be memorialized and mythologized, as a telling example of hubris and nemesis, as a vehicle for cultural expression, as a source of economic regeneration, and even as a physical structure to be replicated, as both an oceangoing liner, and a floating theme park. 

The lecture will also treat some of the ethical considerations involved in the choices individuals and communities made in their approaches to myth and memory, and will examine how these relate to ideas about culture, identity, history, exclusivity, inclusivity, technology, and education.

Dr. Litvack specializes in 19th century British and Irish literature, especially the works of Charles Dickens.  He also has experience as a broadcaster for the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), on both radio and television, and has served as a historical advisor on BBC costume dramas like Great Expectations and Jane Eyre.

Hosted by the faculty of arts on both UNB campuses, in partnership with the UNB Associated Alumni, the W.C. Desmond Pacey Memorial Lecture is presented by leading figures in humanities and social sciences. It was established in 1981 to honour the late Desmond Pacey, a distinguished UNB professor and administrator who died in 1975.

The lectures are free and open to the public.

To arrange a media interview with Dr. Litvack, please contact Kelsey Seymour

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