Did Barbarians get a bad wrap?

Barbarians are the topic of the Arts National talk. (Supplied)

The concept of the barbarian, a foreigner and alien, was central to classical antiquity and coloured much of how history was recorded in Greek and Roman history.

The term Barbarian has long been associated with images of savagery and brutality where, in actual fact, it was used to describe non-Greek speaking peoples deemed inferior and lacking sophistication.

Portrayal of Barbarians appeared in every type of decorative medium and was used to justify imperial rule in Ancient Rome. But the classical Barbarian was very different from our modern concept in sometimes shocking ways.

Professor Andrew Gillett, who has taught in the areas of Late Antique Studies and Australian History in both Australia and Canada, will discuss this intriguing topic at the next Arts National talk on Saturday 12 October at St Mary’s Church, 17 William Street, Tewantin at 4pm.

Visitors $30 including wine and canapes. Bookings preferred via membershipnoosaadfas@gmail.com