In this lecture, we'll explore fascinating examples of therianthropes, part human-part animal, from around the globe.
This event is part of AW – at the museum.
Part human, part animal – sounds like something out of a movie?
It's actually an idea as old as humanity itself! These "therianthropes" (from the Greek words for "wild animal" and "human") might not exist in biology, but they are everywhere in our cultures.
Imagine one of the earliest artworks ever found: the powerful Lion-Man from 40,000 years ago. Or the incredible eland-human hybrids conjured on the mountain surfaces of South African rock art. From ancient myths to modern pop culture, we find stories of shape-shifters and humans taking on animal powers. This isn't just history; it's about how we've always understood our evolving relationship with the animal kingdom – sometimes a harmonious dance, sometimes a fierce challenge.
In this lecture, we'll explore fascinating examples of therianthropes from around the globe. Then, we'll dive into my own research on the Hadza people's connection to the eland. What does it mean to have animal kin? And what is it like to eat the meat of a "kindred spirit"? Come find out how these ancient beliefs echo in our world!
Thea Skaanes, PhD, works at The National Museums of World Culture as a Curator with special focus on African cultural heritage.
