PBS Chronicles THE HISTORY OF ZOMBIES This Halloween
Mike Sprague
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Just in time for Halloween, PBS will chronicle the history of zombies with new episodes of Monstrum and Exhumed: The History of Zombies – both written and hosted by Dr. Emily Zarka.
Zarka says: “We can learn a lot about our culture by exploring the monsters we invent. Looking at the portrayal of zombies over the past two centuries, we can witness the evolving issues and anxieties Americans have faced.”
In the special, Zarka interviews experts, spiritual practitioners, and academics, uncovering the historical roots of zombie folklore, including African spiritual practices, the Transatlantic slave trade, and Haitian Vodou and Voodoo beliefs. She also explores popular culture to witness how the monster has evolved to reflect different eras of American history as it became a staple of films, television, and video games. Zombie stories over the decades represented a range of fears, including nuclear weapons, overpopulation, and political uprisings.
PBS Digital Studios, added: “We’re excited to bring another PBS Digital Studios success to our broadcast platform. This ghoulish special will entertain and expand minds with great educational information in the unique way that only PBS can.”
The new episodes of Monstrum begin on Wednesday, October 14th and Exhumed: A History of Zombies hits PBS on Friday, October 30th at 10 p.m. ET.
Are you looking forward to the specials? Make sure to hit us up and let us know what you think in the comments below or on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram!
Categorized:News
