Fantasy, Magic and the Supernatural in Stories

Everyone is invited to a Community Conversation
Led by Mark Smith, Sunday September 7, 11:45 -12:45 in the Dome, 14724 1st Ave NE, Shoreline, WA 98155 (Shoreline Unitarian Universalist Church)

From ancient times to the present, many of the most prominent and influential stories have contained elements of fantasy, magic, and the supernatural. How can atheists, humanists, and agnostics, who presumably do not accept the underlying reality these stories depict, nevertheless engage with them?

What are the characteristics of the human mind, along with people’s cultures and experiences, that make these stories appealing? Many atheists, humanists, and agnostics also enjoy these kinds of stories. Is that just a guilty pleasure? Or something else?

What are the effects, positive or negative, on societies steeped in fantasy, magic, and the supernatural? We’ll grapple with these questions together.

Here are some quick reads to get us thinking. For the last link, reflect on the fact that stories with fantasy, magic, and supernatural elements dominate the list.
10 Universal Myths Of The Ancient World
Ancient Myths and Legends & The Stories That Shape Us
Box Office Mojo: Top Lifetime Grosses

Then join in the conversation on September 7. Bring snacks or a brown bag lunch if you think you’ll need food. Tables will be provided.

Sponsored by AHA - members, friends, and visitors of Shoreline UU Church who are atheists, humanists, and agnostics, and gather to share our lives and understanding.