The final two sessions of term saw participants explore the human and
poetic dimensions of frog-related literature, from Beatrix Potter to
Seamus Heaney. We thought about changing fashions in taxidermy
(including its hipster revival), and the repurposing of traditional
tales and songs for different eras, whether Randolph Caldecott's
picturebook or Bob Dylan's
folk song cover. We discussed in detail the particular appeal of animals in children's stories; and how their anthropomorphism can help accentuate specific attributes, but also create some bizarre situations (since when did a frog need to shave?). We looked at how familiar myths and songs were reworked with more hopeful or sinister undertones; how frogs were used as symbols of both ambition and futility; how frogs could be part of an induction into the world of natural historical practice; and how the cartoonish depictions of juvenile fiction belied the
disquieting threat of their slimy, amphibious nature.
Speaking of cartoonish depictions, several of us also met for an additional event: a screening of Disney's version of
The Princess and the Frog, accompanied by suitable New Orleans cuisine. The ideal end to the term!
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| Many connections to our term's discussions were found when viewing Disney's The Princess and the Frog. |
Thanks as ever to all participants in our conversations over the past
few months, and especially to Charissa, superlative co-organiser. I'll never look at a frog or a toad the same way again...
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| A recent visitor to our garden. |
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