"The Big, Bad Shark: Jaws, Shark Horror, and Why We're Afraid to get Into the Water" (FREE EXPRESSION OF INTEREST)

PLEASE READ: These tickets are free and open to all, and as such we cannot guarantee seats. The event is a promotion in collaboration with the Round The Dock series in Canada Water SE16 7AR.

"The Big, Bad Shark: Jaws, Shark Horror, and Why We're Afraid to get Into the Water"
With Kaja Franck

Summary
Summer arrives, the weather improves, and we head to the seaside. Yet, many of us are haunted by the fear of oversized sharks, mouth full of teeth, lurking in the depths. The waters of the UK having had no verified sightings of great white sharks, so our fear of sharks is rooted in media sensationalism and Stephen Spielberg's Jaws (1975). Based in Peter Benchley's 1974 novel, few could have predicted that this film would create a whole new monstrous animal. As we face environmental crisis, the perception of sharks is slowly changing as are the stories we tell about them.

From the original shark horror, Jaws, to genetically modified super sharks in Deep Blue Sea (1999), the absurdity of Sharknado (2013), and the Olympian blood bath of Sous La Seine (2024), we'll consider how these films have helped frame, shape and reflect the figure of the shark.

Bio
Dr Kaja Franck is a Lecturer in English Literature and Programme Lead for the MA: Literature & Culture at the University of Hertfordshire. Her research centres on monsters and monstrous animals. She has previously published on the depiction of werewolves in Dracula (1897), the Canadian Gothic and YA fiction, alongside organising international conferences on werewolves, vampires and faeries in literature and popular culture. Her monograph, The Ecogothic Werewolf in Literature: Wolves, Woods and Wilderness, emerged panting into the wild this year. More recent publications include chapters on troll horror, Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight series (2005-8) and John Polidori’s The Vampyre (1819). She has a soft spot for terrible shark horror.

Venue:

Floating Stage Outside
Canada Water SE16 7AR


Event Running Time:
Earlier talk: 
Doors 5:15pm
Introduction 5:45pm
Lecture 5:50pm
Q&A 6:30pm
Finish 6:40pm

Later talk:
Doors: 7pm
Introduction: 7:25pm
Lecture: 7:30pm
Q&A: 8:10pm
Finish: 8:20pm

Food:
If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts.

FAQs:

What is Pints of Knowledge?

Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond.

What happens at Pints of Knowledge?

At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting.

What if I don't drink alcohol?

No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable.

Can I attend without a ticket?

Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket.

Is there food available?

Yes, there is always the option to purchase food at our events.

Can I get my ticket refunded?

We issue full ticket refunds if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Can I get my ticket exchanged?

We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Is the event pet friendly?

Yes, we allow pets to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive.