Literature
Join us on our courses as we explore the world of literature, from classic books to poetry. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the works of renowned authors and help you develop a deeper appreciation for the written word. Enroll now and embark on a journey of literary discovery!
The French Lieutenant’s Woman
How does a mid-twentieth century novelist recreate the world of a century earlier?
This was John Fowles’ task in 1969 when he chose to tell the love story of Charles Smithson and Sarah Woodruff, both using and critiquing the narrative techniques of Dickens, Gaskell, Eliot and Hardy.
The result was a great novel in its own right, but also an insightful and entertaining way to revisit literary and social history.
Our course aims to share and discuss Fowles’ memorable characters, settings and themes – with a broader look at other contemporary ‘Victorian’ novels, such as A S Byatt’s ‘Possession’ and Sarah Waters’ ‘Fingersmith’.
To join us you’ll need a copy of ‘The French Lieutenant’s Woman’ (if you need to buy one, the Vintage Future Classics edition is available online) and an enquiring mind - this course can be tailored to your reading and your interests, and opens many possibilities!
Seven Ages of Man: Poetry from Cradle to Grave
Join us on a poetic journey that celebrates every stage of life, inspired by Jacques’ famous speech from ‘Twelfth Night.’ From the innocence ‘mewling and puking’ infants to the reflections of old age ‘sans teeth, sans eyes sans taste, sans everything,’ we will explore the works of literary giants like Shakespeare, Seamus Heaney, Wordsworth, Wendy Cope, John Don, and Carol Ann Duffy.
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This is not just an exploration of poetry; it's an opportunity to share your own favorites and step outside your comfort zone, all in the company a friendly, like-minded group. Come and celebrate the beauty of life through lens of poetry!
Women in the Shadows
Highlights the remarkable achievements of women writers, musicians, and artists in the 19th century. Despite facing significant obstacles, these trailblazers pushed boundaries and carved out their paths in a male-dominated society. Their creativity and resilience not only contributed to the cultural landscape of their time but also laid the groundwork for future generations of female artists. Join us as we celebrate their legacy and the indomitable spirit that drove them to succeed against all odds.
WHAT THEY DIDN’T TELL YOU ABOUT SHAKESPEARE AT SCHOOL (Part 2)
But you did not need to be there for Part 1
Shakespeare divides people. Many think he is boring and incomprehensible, others think he is exciting and incomparable. Whatever category you fall into (and
there are others!) this you will come away with ideas and information which will enrich your sense of Shakespeare and help to make him very enjoyable.
We will look at such questions as:
How did Shakespeare’s playhouse affect the plays written for it and the way the players acted?
What did Shakespeare’s English sound like?
Where did he find his plots?
What do we know about his life?
When and why did Shakespeare become our national poet?
Who down the years have been the great Shakespeare actors and how did they present his characters?
….and much more!
No previous knowledge is needed.
It is sometimes said that the Victorians lacked a sense of humour.
This is nonsense.
During the Queen Empress’s reign some of the funniest books ever written were published.
So, for example, Dickens’s vision of life in his novels is shot through with comic gusto.
We’ll be looking at three examples of late Victorian humour though no prior knowledge will be assumed.
The Savoy Operas by Gilbert and Sullivan
(including The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance and The Gondoliers) were hugely popular in their day both in Britain and America.
They are still revived and, given a good production, come up fresh as paint.
We’ll be exploring their humour and why they have survived so long. The Diary of a Nobody (1892) by George and Weedon Grossmith is a spoof diary which provides a detailed and comic insight into life in suburban London).
Three Men in a Boat (1889) is the best known novel of Jerome K. Jerome and has been described by one critic as ‘one of the comic gems in the English language.
We will be looking at these wonderful examples of humour in the context of their time and looking at how they have affected later writers.
They Were Amused! Some Examples of Late Victorian Humour
Tales from the Rails (p t 2)
Discover the transformative impact of the
steam-powered locomotive and the rapid expansion of the network in our engaging course.
Explore how these innovations opened up seaside resorts and facilitated the swift transport of goods to burgeoning industrial cities.
We'll delve into various poems, books, and descriptive writings that capture new way of perceiving the world, shaped by the speed of trains. No prior knowledge is required—just bring your curiosity and enthusiasm!
Dickens and Christmas
Dickens and Christmas.
It is often said that Dickens invented Christmas, but this is not the case. However, in "A Christmas Carol" (1843), he played a role in reviving interest in festive celebrations that had waned. More importantly he redefined these traditions for a predominantly urban audience, crafting a powerful parable that reflects his moral philosophy in an engaging narrative. In this exploration, we will examine the book itself, its social context, Dickens's other Christmas writings, and how the author celebrated the holiday, often finding it to be quite exhausting.