Before the Nazis: The Ancient and Global History of the Swastika
About this Event
Event description
The swastika is now one of the most immediately recognizable hate symbols in the world. But its history is much older and wider than its twentieth-century appropriation by the Nazis.
In this Lectures After Dark talk, anthropologist Matthieu Sossoyan will trace the symbol across different cultures, religions, and historical contexts, exploring its often astronomical uses and surprisingly positive meanings.
The talk is designed as a visual journey through hundreds of images, connecting anthropology, history, symbolism, and collective memory, without ever demeaning the symbol's understandable association with racism and antisemitism.
What the audience will walk away with
- A clearer understanding of the swastika before its Nazi appropriation.
- Examples of how the symbol appeared across different cultures and traditions.
- A framework for thinking about how symbols are powerful and can even change meaning over time and place.
About the speaker
Matthieu Sossoyan has taught anthropology at Vanier College since 1999. His public talks have covered elements of 19th century Mohawk history, the ancient roots and meanings of the swastika, and the social place held by the Montreal Canadiens hockey club.
Agenda
🕑: 07:00 PM - 07:30 PM
Open Doors / Settling Down
🕑: 07:30 PM - 08:15 PM
Talk / Lecture
🕑: 08:15 PM - 08:30 PM
Q&A
🕑: 08:30 PM - 09:00 PM
Enjoy the rest of the night!
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
CAD 19.04 to CAD 36.60
