31 OCT 2023 · Sink your teeth into an episode that explores the everlasting allure of Bram Stoker's iconic vampire, Dracula. Hosts Polly Erwin and Clayton Hester invite you on a haunting journey that traverses the misty Carpathian Mountains, the shadowy streets of Victorian London, and the crypts that house undead legends. From ancient vampire myths to the real historical figures that inspired the Count, this episode delves into the tangled roots of vampire lore. Learn about the sociopolitical climate of Stoker's time, including the clash between superstition and the dawning age of enlightenment. Witness the novel's transformation from a Gothic tale to a multimedia phenomenon that has captivated audiences for over a century. From Nosferatu to contemporary adaptations, we examine the Count's indelible impact on literature, cinema, and pop culture. Whether you're a vampire aficionado or new to the lore, join us for an episode that promises to be as enchanting as Dracula himself, quenching your thirst for the immortal tale that refuses to die. Get the full podcast encyclopedia at www.clay.inc.

30 OCT 2023 · In this illuminating episode, hosts Polly Erwin and Clayton Hester pull back the veil on H.G. Wells' groundbreaking science fiction novel, 'The Invisible Man.' Step into the quaint English village of Iping, where Griffin—the mysterious, bandaged stranger—first appears, leaving a trail of chaos and ethical quandaries in his wake. We examine Wells' genius in blending cutting-edge science and timeless human dilemmas, creating a narrative that continues to captivate. As we unravel the fascinating history of the concept of invisibility in lore and scientific thought, we also explore Griffin's tragic journey from ambitious scientist to a man unhinged. Join us as we discuss the cinematic adaptations that brought the Invisible Man into the visual realm, from early black-and-white films to modern reimaginings. We'll also delve into the story's rich layers of symbolism and its ongoing relevance in an age obsessed with surveillance and visibility. So ready your senses for a deep dive into a tale where what you can't see can indeed hurt you, as we explore why 'The Invisible Man' remains a transparent example of science fiction at its finest. Get the full podcast encyclopedia at www.clay.inc

24 OCT 2023 · Prepare for an electrifying journey as hosts Polly Erwin and Clayton Hester delve into Mary Shelley's timeless masterpiece, 'Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus.' Venture back to that fateful summer in 1816, when a writing challenge among literary legends birthed one of the most iconic monsters in history. Witness the haunting nightmare that inspired young Mary, and explore the novel's complex tapestry of themes—creation, morality, isolation, and more—that still resonates today. With a keen eye on the scientific and social backdrop of the era, we explore how 'Frankenstein' came to be a pivotal intersection of Romantic literature and early scientific exploration. From its ethical implications to its indelible imprint on literature and cinema, this episode pulls back the shroud to reveal the true depth of a story often misunderstood. We'll examine the countless adaptations that have reanimated the tale across different mediums, as well as its influence in modern discussions about artificial intelligence and bioethics. So join us, and breathe new life into your understanding of the legacy of 'Frankenstein,' a work that, much like its creature, refuses to die. Get the full podcast encyclopedia at www.clay.inc.

23 OCT 2023 · Dive into the murky waters of horror and legend with hosts Polly Erwin and Clayton Hester as they explore the 1954 cinematic marvel, 'The Creature from the Black Lagoon.' Navigate the winding currents of history and folklore that gave rise to the iconic Gill-Man, a creature that has fascinated audiences for decades. Journey through the Amazonian setting, the Cold War backdrop, and the then-evolving scientific theories on evolution and missing links that enveloped the story. Get up close and personal with the characters, both human and non-human, as we examine the film's central conflict: Man vs. Nature. From the groundbreaking special effects to the creature's lasting impact on horror and pop culture, this episode leaves no stone unturned. Alongside analyses of the narrative and themes, we also delve into the Creature's ongoing legacy and modern-day relevance. So, put on your diving gear and join us for a plunge into one of the most enduring tales of monstrous mystery, as we unpack why 'The Creature from the Black Lagoon' remains a vital part of our collective imagination. View our full podcast encyclopedia at www.clay.inc.

17 OCT 2023 · Venture into the untamed wilderness of myth, history, and cinema as hosts Polly Erwin and Clayton Hester explore the enduring enigma of the Wolfman. From ancient legends of shape-shifters and berserkers to modern tales of full moons and silver bullets, this episode delves into the cultural roots and psychological depths of one of horror's most enduring figures. Learn how the Wolfman prowled his way onto the silver screen and into our collective nightmares, forever altering the landscape of horror cinema. We dissect the themes of duality, transformation, and the primal nature that lurk within us all. Featuring examinations of iconic films, literary sources like Sabine Baring-Gould's "The Book of Were-Wolves," and historical accounts such as the trial of Peter Stump, this episode promises a howling good time. So tune in, if you dare, and discover why the legend of the Wolfman continues to captivate, fascinate, and terrify us, shedding light on our eternal struggle between humanity and the beast within. Get the full podcast encyclopedia at www.clay.inc.

16 OCT 2023 · Unearth the mysteries of one of literature's most iconic figures in this gripping episode that dives deep into Robert Louis Stevenson's "The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde." Hosts Polly Erwin and Clayton Hester guide you through fog-laden streets of Victorian London to the unsettling reflections in the mirror of human duality. From the story's haunting origins in Stevenson's own nightmares to its impact on modern psychology and pop culture, this episode reveals why Jekyll's transformation into Hyde continues to captivate and terrify us to this day. Delve into the symbolism, the societal undercurrents, and the scientific fascinations of the era that gave rise to this chilling tale. From silver screen adaptations to its modern interpretations, this story haunts us to this day. But why? Because it's a piece of us all. Get the full podcast encyclopedia at www.clay.inc.