Archaeologist to explore role of myths in history on Oct. 28

October 16, 2007

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Discover the true story of Columbus through his own words, native oral history and modern scholarship during the Florida Museum of Natural History’s “Science Sundays” lecture series, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Oct. 28.

Florida Museum Caribbean Archaeology Curator William Keegan will discuss how myths and beliefs of the storyteller bias our history. A book signing will follow.

Keegan is the author of the recently released book “Tai?no Indian Myth and Practice: the Arrival of the Stranger King.” He began investigating Caribbean prehistory nearly 30 years ago and infuses his accumulated knowledge about the Taíno, an indigenous pre-Columbian people, with archaeological theory to explain how myths and beliefs not only affect cultures, but also may be used thousands of years later by archaeologists interpreting culture.

Upcoming “Science Sundays” lecturers include “Into the Wilds” Nov. 11, a discussion of nature photography, and “A Natural Perspective” Dec. 2, focusing on the history of Florida’s forests. Both programs begin at 2:30 p.m. For more information call (352) 846-2000, ext. 246 or visit www.flmnh.ufl.edu/education/science_sundays.htm.