On Saturday and Sunday, April 25 and 26, the Grey Havens Group will be hosting its symposium, Real Myth and Mithril: Delving into Fantasy Literature. We have been fortunate to attract some impressive talent to this event. There will be fascinating scholars, gifted authors, dedicated musicians, audacious cosplayers and even a daring troupe of stage combat performers.
Of course, one of the key draws to any symposium or conference is the keynote speaker. At Real Myth and Mithril, we will have, not one, but two distinguished scholars sharing the podium. Here is more about the scholars who will be honoring us with their insights.
Dr. Leslie Taylor:
Leslie Taylor’s research interests include mythology, theology and poetry. She has published on a variety of topics including the logos tomeus metaphor in ancient literature and the influential philosopher Boethius. As a college Lecturer, Leslie has developed and taught Honors seminars on the Epic Tradition and the Legacy of Alexandria (Egypt). She first fell in love with the Finnish epic, Kalevala, during an extended trip to Finland, and is enthusiastic to introduce this wonderful epic to a wider audience. Since January 2014, Taylor has published two novellas, The Haunting Game and The Stillness in which she incorporates Owen Barfield’s theories of figuration and consciousness.
Dr. Jefferey Taylor:
Jefferey H. Taylor is a Professor of English at Metropolitan State University of Denver where he teaches Shakespeare, Old English, and a senior seminar on Tolkien & the Oxford Inklings. His main research focus lies in demonstrating the evolution of consciousness through shifts in theatricality and allegory in the Medieval and Renaissance periods. He has presented papers at the Owen Barfield Society meetings the past two years and will chair the session this year. He is obsessed with all things Icelandic, especially the post-rock music of this past decade and the many hot-springs throughout the country. Both Jefferey and Leslie Taylor are esteemed advisors to the Owen Barfield Literary Estate.
Saturday’s speech is titled: “The Rags of Lordship: Postmodern Light from Tolkien and Barfield”
Sunday’s speech is titled: “None Has Ever Caught Him Yet: Bombadil, Gandalf, & The Kalevala”
Click on this link to register for Real Myth and Mithril. If you register before April 1, both days are only $15! You have the option of paying online or at the door.
