Events at the National Library of Scotland from April to June 2010
Heinrich Schliemann Panel Discussion
Heinrich Schliemann is one of the most famous and controversial nineteenth century archaeologists. He claimed that his fabulous discoveries at Mycenae in Greece and Troy in Turkey proved the historic reality of Homer’s tales of the Trojan Wars. Join this fascinating discussion and debate featuring David Traill*, one of Schliemann’s leading biographers and critics. Schliemann’s papers and photographs were added to the Library’s John Murray Archive in 2008, and a selection are due to on display in the permanent John Murray Archive exhibition to coincide with this event.
* David Traill will appear at this event via a live web link
Dramatic Developments: Scottish theatre from the seventies to the nineties
Thursday 15 April, 6.00pm
Scottish Literature has enjoyed an impressive renaissance since the 1980s. The revival in Scottish drama, though, began significantly earlier, in the 1970s or even before. This lecture, by Professor Randall Stevenson, explores the roots and nature of developments involved, the work of playwrights concerned, and consequences which helped shape the wider success of Scottish writing later in the century.
A Night in the Gutter
22 April, 8.00pm
The Library opens its doors after hours for this first evening of spoken word and performance. Gutter is Scotland’s new independent magazine of fiction and poetry. Under the eye of tonight’s master of ceremonies, Mr Alan Bissett, well known names and some new writers on the block will present their diverse, delicate and sometimes dangerous work. The bar will be open, so come and enjoy what Gutter has to offer.
Inspirations at NLS – Janice Galloway
Tuesday 27 April, 6.00pm
One of Scotland's most celebrated authors visits NLS to tell us what has inspired her over the years. From the great composers of classical music, the nonsense of Edward Lear and the wit of Armando Ianucci, Janice's influences are as varied as her many works. Book early to avoid disappointment.
David Hume and the art of dying well
Wednesday 5 May, 6.00pm
In April 1776, David Hume wrote “My Own Life” a short autobiography in which he assessed his achievements and anticipated his posthumous reputation. Taking this manuscript in the National Library of Scotland as a starting point, James Runcie looks at Hume’s preparation for death within both the classical and the medieval tradition of “the art of dying well”; and examines the precise, honest, and personal manner in which Scotland’s greatest philosopher came to terms with his mortality.
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Iain Banks
Friday 7 May, 7.30pm, Ullapool Village Hall
With 24 novels published to date, Iain Banks remains one of Scotland’s most celebrated and successful authors. Slipping seamlessly between his mainstream and Science Fiction persona’s his tales have entranced a generation. Join Iain as he gives us an exclusive preview from his new and unpublished Science Fiction work and take the opportunity to ask him a question or two.
Tickets £6, will be on sale from 24 March from The Booth www.thebooth.co.uk or by post from Ullapool Book Festival, PO Box 27, Ullapool IV26 2WY (cheques to be payable to Ullapool Book Festival) enclosing sae.
The Lore of Scotland
Tuesday 18 May, 6.00pm
With Jennifer Westwood, Sophia Kingshill has produced what must be the definitive guide to Scottish Legends and Folklore. Amongst the wealth of material researched for this book were the papers of J F Campbell, a leading authority on Celtic Myths, many of which are housed in the NLS collection. Join Sophia as she discusses them and other incredible tales from this beautiful book.
Inspirations at NLS – AL Kennedy
Wednesday 26 May, 6.00pm
Author, stand up comedian, playwright and television presenter, there is not much that A L Kennedy cannot do. But who or what has inspired her to achieve all that she has? Come and join one of Scotland’s writing elite and hear about those influences.
Burke and Hare: the re-telling of a true story
Thursday 3 June, 6.00pm
The vicious deeds of the 19th Century’s most prolific serial killers, continues to shock over 150 years after they took place. Now the tale of William Burke and William Hare has been turned into a graphic novel with a major film on the way. Why does this story still fascinate us and how do you adapt it into this exciting new format. Join writer Martin Conaghan and guests as they discuss this infamous duo.
The Place Name Debate
Wednesday 30 June, 6.00pm
The official use of Gaelic place-names in Scotland has been the subject of some controversy. This panel discussion and Q&A session will explore why the promotion of Gaelic is important, how wider official use of Gaelic place-names can contribute to this, and how place-names are standardised in the rest of the world. Taking part in the debate will be Jacob King from Ainmean-Àite na h-Alba, Peadar Morgan from Bòrd na Gàidhlig and David Munro, who represents the UK within the United Nations Group of Experts on Geographical Names.
This event is being organised in conjunction with the Trends in Toponymy conference at the University of Edinburgh.
Unless otherwise stated, all events take place at the National Library of Scotland, GeorgeIVBridge, Edinburgh and are free of charge, although advance booking is necessary. Book your online at www.nls.uk/events/booking, or call 0131 623 3918
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