The seminar is held in-person, but online attendance is possible via: https://aarhusuniversity.zoom.us/j/67482436575

Abstract

This talk explores the myth of ‘Hyperborea’ as an inspiration for white remasculinization among the Euro-American far right, with a special focus on the far-right YouTube channel AlphaAffirmations. Here sounds, images, and spoken words create affirmations and atmospheres designed to encourage white males to reconnect with – and awaken their ‘blood memory’ of – an imagined white homeland in the far north. In its promise of a regenerated white masculinity the concept of ‘Hyperborea’ thus offers further evidence of the ongoing overlap between the far right, wellness cultures, and what is broadly called ‘New Age’ spirituality.

Short Bio

Christopher E. Forth is AIAS Visiting Fellow and Dean’s Professor of History at the University of Kansas. The author or editor of twelve books, including Zarathustra in Paris: The Nietzsche Vogue in France, 1891-1918 (2001), The Dreyfus Affair and the Crisis of French Manhood (2004) and Masculinity in the Modern West (2008), his most recent monograph is Fat: A Cultural History of the Stuff of Life (2019). His current book projects are tentatively entitled Life is Elsewhere: Feeling Alive in the Modern World and Planet Fight Club: Masculinity, Modernity, and the Global Far Right.

What is an AIAS Seminar?

The AIAS Seminar is a session of seminars held by the AIAS fellows, AIAS Visiting or Tandem Fellows or by other speakers proposed by the fellows. In each seminar, a fellow will present and discuss her/his current research and work-in-progress for 30 minutes, closing off with 30 minutes for questions, comments and discussion.

All seminars are held in English.