Scientific Research Into Latvian Folklore

The Institute of Literature, Folklore and Art of the University of Latvia, the Latvian Folklore Repository Research Group, in collaboration with the museum "Latvians in the World", is launching a seminar series "Latvian Folklore in Exile". We invite you to the first seminar "Scientific Research in Latvian Folklore" on October 16 at 6:00 p.m. at the museum's premises in Riga, Dzirnavu Street 84.

"Scientific Research in Latvian Folklore" was the name of the humorous series by Chicago-based Latvian publicist and public figure Laimonis Streips (1931–2003), which was published in the magazine "Jaunā Gaita" from 1957 to 1967. In these "studies", he thematically explained Latvian folk songs, contemplating various aspects of the life of "ancient Latvians". Using parody and other comic techniques, the author takes a sharp look at both the problems in Latvian exile society (from exaggerated nationalism to integration into American culture) and casts a glance beyond the Iron Curtain – at the developments in occupied Latvia.

The evening will be opened by a lecture by Dr. philol. Rita Zara, followed by informal discussions.

The seminar is free of charge, and no prior registration is required. You are welcome!

The seminar series is organised within the project No. lzp-2024/1-0522 “Latvian Folklore in Exile” funded by the Latvian Science Council.