What is Modern Paganism? - Ronald Hutton

What is modern Paganism, and how does it relate to witchcraft, Druidry and other phenomena? This lecture is designed to answer that question, and in doing so to provide an overview of the different traditions that make up Paganism today. It will show what they have in common, and what makes each one unique. It will suggest the ways in which Paganism differs from other religious traditions and what it has especially to offer the modern world. It will also address the question of its relationship with ancient paganism.

This lecture was recorded by Ronald Hutton on 18th September 2024 at Barnard's Inn Hall, London

Ronald is the Gresham Professor of Divinity.

He is also Professor of History at the University of Bristol and a Fellow of the British Academy, the Royal Historical Society, the Society of Antiquaries and the Learned Society of Wales.

The transcript of the lecture is available from the Gresham College website:

[JohnGPK]

I see Prof. Hutton, I click, like, and comment.

[giovannadiaz]

I love how respectful prof. Hutton is, that ending was delightful. His lectures are always a joy to listen.
From a practicing witch and pagan❤

[eugenio]

Professor Hutton is an absolute delight to listen to. I loved how respectful he was of paganism as a human expression, and the way he sprinkles witty remarks in his speech is just perfect.

[cherylkannemeyer]

This was a fascinating and succinct lecture. Quite beautiful in truth and respect. Thank you Professor Hutton for your intellectual and sensitive account.

[chancefoxhauck]

It made my day that Dr. Hutton mentioned Terry Pratchett as a modern source of pagan inspiration 💖🕯
Terry Pratchett taught me more about magic than any other author both of fantasy and history. Theories in his books (specifically "Head-ology') are valid psychological approaches to spirituality. That isn't to mention how insightful and funny the portrayals of government and magical order are.

[susanjane]

Brilliant choice to end with a version of The Charge of The Goddess. I add some more poetry... "Once we have allowed ourselves to look into [The Goddess'] open eyes, we can never lose sight of her again. For she faces us in the mirror, and her steps echo each time we place foot to round. Try to leap away, and she will pull you back. You cannot fall away from her—there is nowhere she is not. —Starhawk, “Spiral Dance”

[inrspc]

I love that Dr. Hutton chose to close this lecture by reciting The Charge of the Goddess. ❤

[Talentedtadpole]

Professor Dutton read the Charge of the Goddess so beautifully. That he reversed it shows humility, respect and deep understanding which evades almost all men. Blessings upon him. 🌘

[ekongkaarkaurkhalsa]

Such a delightful talk. He has such a lilting, lovely and intelligent voice. Appreciated this.

[williammashtalier]

Wow! That was beautiful. I am so happy that I get to hear these lectures. <3

[justinlloyd]

I only just now found you sir. I truly wish I had found you 20 plus years ago. Thank you very much.

[catharinethomas]

His point about the connection between magic and religion, which he has lectured about before, is HIS concept and it's genius.

[AndYourLittleDog]

Behold, the only person on earth capable of mentioning geometry in the opening of his lecture and then proceeding to deliver a brilliant talk that has me riveted to my seat.

[tzmythos]

Marvellous. I cannot get enough of Professor Hutton, who is simply a joy and wonder to listen to, and watch. Please give us as much as you can of him. The Professor walks a fine line between fact and imagination that is, I think, key to his authority as both a historian and a poet of paganism. I am deeply moved by this lecture. I am of Slavic origin (not much interrested in Slavic paganism, for some reason) living in Australia which - while home to probably the oldest continuous living, deeply spiritual culture on earth - has neither ancient history nor a deep spiritual culture for non-Aboriginal Australians to draw on. We non-indigenes have yet to birth a mythology of intimate connection with our land.

[ladystardust]

This lecture is an excellent and comprehensive primer for anyone who is wondering....

[barbararowley]

Thank you for another fascinating and enlightening lecture.

[Crinklechip-s]

There might not be any official holy writings but I reckon Doreen Valiente’s ‘Charge Of The Goddess’ is right up there for Witches/Wiccans. A great lecture.

[rorybaird]

The prospect of listening to this indices tangible, physical excitement in me.

[jeanettewaverly]

Hello again, professor! I love your work!

[ruiseartalcorn]

Marvellous! As a Pagan Druid/Wiccan, I found this to be a truly wonderful lecture! :)