A Weekend of Paine

Thursday June 04, 2009 21:13

by Will Simpson - Bristol Radical History Group

Rediscovering Britain's greatest least known radical thinker

As part of their Spring Programme, this week sees another two Bristol Radical History events, both of which look at the legacy of one of Britain's most important radical thinkers: Thomas Paine.

First up on Sunday 7 June we present WELCOME TO A WORLD OF PAINE, a celebration of Paine's life and work featuring speakers and acoustic music. Under the light of the full moon join us in toasting the hero of the French and American revolutions with stories round the bonfire, cider, spikes and guillotines.

Sunday 7 June, from 7.30pm @ Boiling Wells Site, St Werburghs, from 7.30pm.
Price: Donations.

The following day we look more closely at the influence of Paine's writings. In WHO THE HELL IS THOMAS PAINE? Peter Clark explains the contemporary importance of his work in the revolutionary ferment of the late 18th Century. Paine redefined the nature of political discourse with his groundbreaking views on human rights, democracy, racial equality and the welfare state. Clark asks why this great British thinker is feted is France and the United States, yet remains a prophet without fortune in his native land.

A writer and Middle East cultural consultant Peter Clark edited The Lefties Guide to Britain (2005) and is an expert on the radical history of East Anglia.

Monday 8 June, from 7.30pm @ The Scout Hut, St Mary Redcliffe. Price: Donations.