UBC experts come bearing gifts of knowledge on subjects ranging
from the influence of Dickens at Christmas to holiday health hazards.
What the Dickens is Christmas all about?
Late 19th-century writer Charles Dickens helped define our notion
of Christmas through A Christmas Carol and other stories.
English Assoc. Prof. David Evans says Dickens was also an astute
businessman who understood the value of Christmas marketing by regularly
publishing idealized and sentimental stories just in time for the
holidays.
- Contact: Assoc. Prof. David Evans, English Dept., 604.822.5429
Better watch out!
Mistletoe, poinsettias and holly provide traditional holiday greenery
but can be hazardous if accidentally eaten. Berries and sap from
these plants can cause symptoms ranging from gastroenteritis to
skin irritation, especially in children. Debra Kent of the Faculty
of Pharmaceutical Sciences can help you make a list of holiday hazards
and check it twice to ensure a merry festive season.
- Contact: Debra Kent, B.C. Drug and Poison Information
Centre, (604) 682-2344, Ext. 2128
Hanukkah pays homage to historic battle
Hanukkah, which begins the evening of Dec. 13 and ends Dec. 21,
celebrates the victory of light over darkness and the victory of
the Maccabees over the Greeks, says Gabriel Meranda, executive director
of UBC’s Hillel House. Lighting of Hanukkah candles will take place
every evening of Hanukkah outside Hillel House between Brock Hall
and the North Parkade off Student Union Blvd.
- Contact: Gabriel Meranda, Executive Director, Hillel
House, (604) 224-4748
Christmas celebrations kicked off circa 300 AD
When did people first start celebrating Christmas? And did it look
like our present-day festival? Paul Burns, an assistant professor
of Religious Studies, says Christmas has its origins in the fourth
century.
- Contact: Asst. Prof. Paul Burns, Classical, Near Eastern
and Religious Studies Dept., 604.822.4046
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