There are few monsters more recognizable or popular than the zombie. The reanimated corpse has been a staple of folklore, film, literature and popular culture for nearly 200 years. Join Dr. Emily Zarka, who studies literature and film through the lens of monsters, as she deconstructs some of the most significant moments in zombie popular culture over the last two centuries to reveal what these creatures say about us. In New Orleans, Dr. Zarka explores how zombie folklore arose before it became mainstream and discovers more about the spiritual and historical roots of zombie lore.
In this new one-hour Halloween PBS special, Dr. Emily Zarka will deconstruct some of the most significant moments in zombie popular culture over the last two centuries to reveal what these creatures say about us.
The world is full of monsters, myths, and legends and Monstrum isn’t afraid to take a closer look. The show, hosted by Emily Zarka, Ph.D., takes us on a journey to discover a new monster for each new episode. Monstrum looks at humans unique drive to create and shape monster mythology through oral storytelling, literature and film.
I'm Emily Zarka. I earned a Doctor of Philosophy in English from Arizona State University, specializing in British Romantic literature with an emphasis on the Gothic. I approach literature and film through monsters, applying the theory that human history is monster history. I am the writer and host for "Monstrum," an online series with PBS's Storied channel on YouTube that looks at complex histories and motivations behind some of the world's most famous monsters. I also wrote and hosted a one-hour documentary for PBS called Exhumed: A History of Zombies. My teaching experience includes undergraduate and graduate courses in literature, composition, and film and media. Currently, I am part of the faculties of both Arizona State University and Mesa Community College.
By browsing this website, you accept our cookies policy.