Race, Politics, Literature: James Baldwin's America with Dr Ciarán Leinster

James Baldwin was one of the most celebrated and well-known authors of the 1950s and 1960s. Prolific in writing novels, essays, plays, and short stories, he also appeared regularly on television and in public debates, typically discussing the American Civil Rights Movement and the plight of black Americans. With his elegant prose, righteous fury, and powerful public speaking voice, he was a vital intellectual figure of the period, and later dubbed by Colm Toibín “the most eloquent man in the America of his time.”

In recent years, interest in Baldwin has once again exploded - both the documentary I am Not Your Negro (2017), based on his speeches and writings, and the 2018 adaptation of his novel, If Beale Street Could Talk, gained critical praise and popular acclaim. The escalation in racial tensions in America have also seen writers and the public return to his works, re-assessing them for the 21st Century and finding what is still vital in them.

This talk will provide an overview of Baldwin’s most important writings, his contribution to American literary, political, and intellectual life, and show how his work, by speaking to recurring issues and concerns, remains a key touchstone for anyone seeking to understand race in America.

Dr Ciarán Leinster has a PhD in North American Literature and Culture, graduating from the University of Seville in 2019. He has taught at UCD, TCD, and Griffith College, and worked at UCD Access & Lifelong Learning since 2023. His first book, on the late plays of Arthur Miller, is due to be published this year.

Booking details: The programme caters to an ever-growing community of around 1,000 Lifelong Learners and we encourage you to join! To contact UCD about their Lifelong Learning Programme, email all@ucd.ie or Tel (01) 716 7123.
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Max 25 attendees