Experts Advisory: The University at Albany's Experts on Halloween

Contact(s):  Catherine Herman (518) 956-8150, ([email protected])

ALBANY, N.Y. (October 15, 2008) -- Halloween and popular culture, masks, costumes, garlic and folklore discussed by UAlbany's Halloween faculty experts.

* Garlic, anyone? -- Whether to ward off vampires this Halloween or cancer and heart disease, garlic is often a cross between modern science and folklore. Professor Eric Block, one of the world's foremost experts in Allium chemistry, has researched organic compounds in garlic. His book Garlic and Other Alliums: The Lore and the Science, will be published in 2009.

* Halloween: A creepy good time, but not just for kids! -- Halloween is still popular among children and adolescents, but it has also grown into a major adult holiday. Last year, more than 85 percent of 18-24 year olds celebrated the holiday in some way, representing the largest segment of those partaking in the fun. Sociologist Richard Lachmann can offer insight into the popularity of Halloween and its place in American pop culture.

* From Dora the Explorer to Obama and McCain masks -- Trick-or-treaters have been showcasing their senses of humor, interests and creativity with their favorite costumes on Halloween for generations. In her book Dressed for Thrills: 100 Years of Halloween Costumes and Masquerade, art professor Phyllis Galembo documents the customs behind costumes from all over the world.

View UAlbany's faculty experts.