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Throughline October 28, 2021 50m

The Dance of the Dead

NPR

Summary

The main theme explores the historical origins of Halloween, tracing its roots to ancient Celtic traditions. Key figures and subjects include the Samhain festival, the concept of fairies (specifically the "she" and banshee), and the ancient Irish Celts' beliefs about the veil between worlds thinning. The practical takeaway is that Halloween traditions, from costumes and warding off spirits to its connection to death and the unknown, are deeply rooted in our innate human need to confront and playfully engage with our deepest fears.

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