Faust And Furious
Public talk on the development/destruction of Edinburgh through an exploration of class and art. And Goethe's Faust Part 2.
This talk was arranged with University of Edinburgh several months ago. However, with the recent closing of The People’s Story the topic is relevant, even vital. I have been fascinated by the Faust legend for many years. Particularly Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s Faust Part 2. This talk will explore the waves of social changes that have occurred in Edinburgh over the last 250 years.
One of the messages of Faust Part 2 is that every development is simultaneously a destruction. From the 18th century to today I will reconsider changes in the Old Town and theme of development/destruction through the prism of class and the idea of a Faustian pact.
Primarily looking at these changes through the arts. From Walter Scott, Benjamin Britten, Muriel Spark, Hector Berlioz, Irvine Welsh, Van Gogh and others. This talk will uncover the connections between these apparently disparate figures in the literary, musical, and art worlds.
This talk is a one off. It is organised and hosted by St Cecilia’s Hall in the Cowgate. The first purpose build concert hall in Scotland and one of the oldest buildings in Edinburgh. It is a beautiful and important building. So if you haven’t been inside before you should come to see the venue as much as my talk!
Tickets are free and can be booked via Eventbrite here.
Don’t forget to join me on Substack Notes.