Critic’s Choice

Lecture

Critic's Choice Absolution

Elaine Newton, Professor Emeritus of Humanities at York University, Toronto

The book to be discussed is
Absolution
by Alice McDermott

In Absolution, Alice McDermott offers a nuanced portrayal of two women whose lives intersect in Saigon during the early days of the Vietnam War. As Tricia and Charlene navigate their roles as expatriate wives, they are confronted with moral complexities and the harsh realities of their circumstances. McDermott’s keen insight into human nature and her exploration of the political and psychological landscape create a profound narrative of complicity, guilt and the search for meaning amid chaos. Join Elaine Newton as she delves into this compelling examination of history, memory and moral awakening.

This presentation is part of Elaine Newton's Critic’s Choice series.

Please note: The Thursday lecture will be held in Daniels Pavilion. The Saturday lecture will be held in Hayes Hall.

Elaine Newton

Elaine Newton

Elaine Newton is professor emeritus of humanities at York University, Toronto, Canada. She has taught courses in literary theory and methodology, contemporary fiction, psychology and literature and archetypal criticism. Elaine was one of the founders of York University’s advising program and its much-emulated faculty of education. She is a recipient of the province of Ontario’s Teaching Award in recognition of excellence in university teaching and, in 1984, received a citation as Toronto’s Outstanding Professor. In 1996, she was the recipient of the university-wide Teaching Award. She has held appointments as professor of literature at Carlton University, Ottawa; University of Cape Town, South Africa; University of Sydney, Australia, Victoria University and the University of Otago, New Zealand. She has lectured throughout Canada and the U.S., London, Hong Kong, Zurich and Caracas. In 1992, she was a member of the faculty of the University of Pittsburgh’s Semester-at-Sea. Elaine retains an abiding commitment to adult education and the role of the university in the wider community.

For over 40 years, Elaine has planned and conducted adult education courses throughout North America. This is the 35th anniversary season of Critic’s Choice literature series and the 29th year she has presented Four O’clock at the Movies. She also initiated and taught the pioneering Artis—Naples seminar discussion program, the Questors, for 12 years. Elaine has worked as a book critic for Toronto’s The Globe and Mail, been a special consultant to the Ontario Library Association, led movie and theater discussions and served as a consultant to the North York Board of Education. She continues to conduct an annual lecture series at the Toronto Public Library and makes frequent guest appearances on TV and radio. Elaine has an enthusiastic and loyal following each season as she offers insightful commentary about contemporary fiction and motion pictures.