The Humanities Lab

How did William Shakespeare, the “upstart crow,” become elevated to mythic status as The Bard?

Inspired by the Folger temporary exhibition Imagining Shakespeare: Mythmaking and Storytelling in the Regency Era, this Humanities Lab course explores how various art forms and material culture helped shape Shakespeare’s reputation across generations.

Seen on view together for the first time since the Boydell Shakespeare Gallery of London closed in 1805, the 14 paintings on view in Imagining Shakespeare depict scenes from Shakespeare’s plays while also speaking to a larger narrative of how the playwright was refashioned into a cultural icon during the 18th century. The Boydell Gallery contributed to the story of Shakespeare as a genius from birth—the Bard, a symbol of British imperialism and economic power. This exhibition offers visitors the chance to consider both the stories Shakespeare created and the stories that were created about him.

In this course, participants will explore the exhibition together to consider what story the artwork on display tells us about Shakespeare and his plays. Folger curators will share additional items from our world-famous Shakespeare collection to build on ideas and observations made in the exhibition halls. We will conclude with a discussion to understand how those across different eras viewed Shakespeare and his plays.

Everyone’s welcome, whether you’re completely new to Shakespeare or a scholar on the subject. All you need is your observation skills and a willingness to learn! The time commitment is minimal: one Wednesday evening.

Your course fee includes a ticket to see Folger Theatre’s production of How Shakespeare Saved My Life, a contemporary tour-de-force performance by Broadway star Jacob Ming-Trent that examines his own relationship with Shakespeare’s works and words.

We’re keeping the class small, so space is limited – register today!