Dartmouth Events

Ritual/Atrocity: Patterns of Meaning in Extreme Violence

The Dartmouth Religion Department presents The James S. Hardigg Family Fund Lecture on Religion by David Frankfurter, Boston University.

1/29/2026
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Haldeman Hall 41 (Kreindler Conference Hall)
Intended Audience(s): Public
Categories: Lectures & Seminars, School of Arts and Sciences

David Frankfurter, Professor of Religion; Aurelio Professor of the Appreciation of Scripture, ancient Mediterranean religions; Jewish and Christian literature
Boston University

Thursday, January 29, 2026
4:30 PM
Location: Haldeman 041
Free and open to all

Reception to follow

Lecture title: Ritual/Atrocity: Patterns of Meaning in Extreme Violence

Abstract: What is “ritual” violence, and where do we find it in history? This lecture will discuss issues around the category ritual as writers have applied it to violence both imaginatively and critically. Then I will illustrate ritual features in several modern cases of protracted violent action. Ritual is not a characteristic feature of violence, atrocity, and abuse, but it can be recognized in particular types of action.

For more information, contact:
Liz Storn
religion@dartmouth.edu
603-646-3738
Permanent URL to this event: https://religion.dartmouth.edu/events/event?event=80027

Events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted.