In part two of our special interview with the British Museum’s Dr. Irving Finkel, he shares more from his book, The First Ghosts: Most Ancient of Legacies, including a discussion of the earliest drawing of a ghost, the intricate role of exorcists in Mesopotamian societies, and how the dead would often be rudely called up from the underworld to answer pressing personal questions from the living. He also ponders why modern society has become so skeptical about ghosts and shares his attempts to see one for himself at the very haunted British Museum. We would strongly suggest listening to part one before enjoying this episode.

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What is the oldest recorded mention of a ghost? Dr. Irving Finkel, Assistant Keeper of Ancient Mesopotamian script, languages and cultures in the Department of the Middle East at the British Museum, joins us to talk about his recent book The First Ghosts: Most Ancient of Legacies. He shares how living with ghosts and other restless spirits has been part of the human experience from the earliest moments of recorded history. Not only is he a leading expert in ancient writing, but also a wonderful and playful storyteller and we are extremely lucky to have him for a special two-part interview. Part two will be released next Friday.

Be sure to check out our new Haunted Talks Tees & Haunted Hoodies!