A Brief Cultural History of Elves

Are they mysterious fey, evil spirits, kindly helpers, or something else? Were they always considered to be "good?"  Do people today still believe in elves?  When considering the viewpoints of several cultures, elves come in many different shapes, sizes, and possess personality traits. 

 Consider the elves of Norse Mythology, those of the fantasy genre, and those that are used in advertising both snack foods and breakfast cereals.  From where did the concept of “the elf” originate, and how do modern adaptations in fantasy lore compare with their origin? How do "Christmas" elves differ from those found in the lore of J.R.R. Tolkien, and how and when did elves become associated with Christmas at all?  

This lecture by  Professor Alexander Clemente, Professor of History at the County College of Morris, will help us to address these questions and come to a deeper appreciation of yet another fantasy race.

Prof. Clemente has also taught at William Patterson and Montclair State University. For the better part of twenty years, he has enjoyed presenting historical lectures on a wide variety of topics to adult audiences. His interests include medieval history and culture, mythology, literature, and art and he attempts to take a comprehensive approach when he presents on such topics, so that the audience can get as best an overview of each topic, as possible.

This program  is made possible with the support of The Friends of the Livingston Public Library.