University of Birmingham: From the Spartans to cancel culture and reproduction rights, Birmingham scholars to take part at Hay

Leading researchers and experts from the University of Birmingham’s College of Arts and Law are taking part in this year’s Hay Festival, which returns to Hay-on-Wye between Thursday 26 May and Sunday 5 June.

The speakers will cover a wide range of topics: Dr Andrew Bayliss will discuss his research into the Spartans; Dr Atina Krajewska will ask whether abortion law can act as a litmus test for democracy and the rule of law; and Dr Nathan Waddell will speak on cancel culture, extreme politics, and public apology. The talks form part of the ongoing partnership between the University of Birmingham and the Hay Festival.

The Hay Festival provides a wonderful opportunity for our researchers to share their work with new audiences. This year, our speakers will cover everything from Spartan warriors, to cancel culture in interwar Britain, to reproductive rights and democracy. This breadth demonstrates the contribution arts and humanities research makes to our understanding of the world we live in.
Professor Hugh Adlington, Director of Research and Knowledge Transfer at the University of Birmingham’s College of Arts and Law