Rites of Spring: Nature, Myth, and Legends

In this 3-part lecture series, we’ll explore the natural beauty and historical legends that make Spring magical!

Course Description

The flowers are blooming and we’re diving into the weeds of this glorious time of year! Step outside with us (through our screens) to explore the Nature, Myths, and Legends of spring! This three-part lecture series hosted by science communicator Dr. Kelly Reidy, host of our very own Accidental Discoveries, will also feature the expertise of mythologist and storytell Dr. John Bucher and naturalist and herbalist Vanessa Chakour. We’ll connect to the Spring season by uncovering traditional rites of spring, unraveling age-old cultural practices around this spirited season, and exploring the vibrant tapestry of spring’s impact on the animal kingdom. Lastly, we’ll go on an ‘Online Plant Walk,’ where we’ll delve into the wonders of nature through plant identification, ethical foraging, and wildcrafting, fostering a deep sense of connection to the Earth. Join us as we weave together the threads of nature, culture, and folklore, unlocking the secrets and magic of springtime traditions.

Syllabus At A Glance

This course includes three total sessions, each lasting 1 hour on three consecutive days beginning May 20.

Session 1 (Monday, 5/20, 7–8:00 PM ET) | Echoes of Tradition: Myths and Rites of Spring With Dr. John Bucher

Session 2 (Tuesday, 5/21, 7–8:00 PM ET) | Rebirth & Renewal: Spring Wildlife Wonders With Dr. Kelly Reidy

Session 3 (Wednesday, 5/22, 7–8:00 PM ET) | Online Plant Walk: Wildcrafting and Natural Connections With Vanessa Chakour

Your Instructors

Dr. Kelly Reidy 

Dr. Kelly Reidy is a storyteller, performer, and rogue scientist based in New York City. She is an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Math & Science at Pratt Institute and has traveled the world as a creative consultant with Museum Hack. In her spare time, she writes and performs small songs about, among other things, love and mathematics. Find her on IG and Twitter: @drunkascheese!

Dr. John Bucher

Dr. John Bucher is a mythologist and storyteller based out of Hollywood, California. He serves as Creative Director for the Joseph Campbell Foundation and is also an author, podcaster, speaker, teacher, and consultant. He has worked with companies including HBO, DC Comics, The History Channel, A24 Films, and has served as a consultant and writer for numerous film, television, and Virtual Reality projects. He co-hosts the Skeleton Keys podcast, which examines mythology and history in pop culture, with Historian Torri Yates-Orr. John holds a PhD in Mythology and Depth Psychology and has spoken on 6 continents about myth, story, rituals, symbols, and cults.

Vanessa Chakour

Vanessa Chakour is an author, naturalist, visual artist, herbalist and nature advocate. A dynamic blend of her vast personal experiences over 20+ years, she facilitates courses and retreats; helping students access their inner wild while learning from the plants, fungi and animals that share their  ecosystems. She created Rewilding Through Writing programs to facilitate healing through the creative process; encouraging writers to trust their creative instincts and build confidence in their voice. Vanessa lives with her partner in Western Massachusetts where they steward Mount Owen Forest Sanctuary, promoting ecosystem diversity and resilience through forest stewardship and propagation of native and endangered plants and fungi. She is the author of  Awakening Artemis, a memoir of healing through the lens of 24 medicinal plants, and the forthcoming Earthly Bodies: Embracing Animal Nature that Sy Montgomery, bestselling author of How to Be A Good Creature, calls a "triumphant and vibrant interweaving of memoir and natural history."