Ryan will present a narrative overview of Herakles' twelve labours, highlighting symbols and archetypes relevant to the cultural construction of masculinities. This talk will provide a feminist revisioning of the Herakles cannon, locating Hera as justice-bringer responding to Harakles' murder of Megara and their children. With a special focus on labour six, the Stymphalian Birds, this myth will show how masculinities can constructively participate in alleviating womens' suffering under patriarchal and imperial subjugation.

BIO

Ryan holds a Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University (2025), as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Greek and Roman Studies from the University of Victoria (2011). He is an alumni of the Canadian College of Performing Arts (2006), with extended experience in Shakespearean theatre, performance, and production. With over 10 years experience in child & youth care, he presently works as a counsellor and group facilitator with the Nanaimo Mens' Resource Centre.

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