'Ancient Roman Religion and Nebraska Football' at Oct. 21 Olson Seminar
Released on 10/09/2009, at 2:00 AM
Office of University Communications
University of Nebraska–Lincoln
WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2009
WHERE: Great Plains Art Museum, 1155 Q Street, Hewit Place
Media commentators on college sports have alluded to how football programs at some universities achieve such high status among fans that football almost becomes a religion.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln scholar Michael Hoff will discuss that phenomenon in an Oct. 21 Paul A. Olson Seminar at UNL titled "Ancient Roman Religion and Nebraska Football." The seminar will be 3:30-5 p.m. in the Great Plains Art Museum, 1155 Q St. It is free and open to the public as is a 3 p.m. reception in the museum.
As an archaeologist and art historian who understands the workings of Roman cults and admits to being a fan of college football, Hoff said he has always been struck by the similarities of both. Hoff, a professor of art and art history, will share insights on how Nebraska's football program, like an ancient Roman religion, is an institution that binds together the different populations within the state.
The Olson seminars are presented by the Center for Great Plains Studies at UNL.