Study Group Details

An abiding character, both in folklore and real life, is the Trickster—the wise guy who lives to outsmart others. Whether a lovable rogue or a menace to society, this archetype takes on the powerful and makes them dance to his tune.  He can be godly or human, mammal or insect, con artist or real artist. His pranks may be silly or seriously harmful.  We'll review a host of famous Tricksters—Hermes, Coyote, Till Eulenspiegel, Brer Rabbit, Maui, Charles Ponzi, Pablo Picasso, et al.—and consider why they're so endearing, exasperating, dangerous, and essential to any culture.