Shakespeare’s Hamlet is considered one of the greatest works in English literature. Literature professor Joseph Luzzi explores this play about murder, revenge, and madness that resonates with generations of readers and viewers. He also highlights Shakespeare’s philosophical brilliance, linguistic inventiveness, and ability to capture the most complex—and often unsettling—human emotions.
Smithsonian Associates speaker Paul Glenshaw returns to the Art + History series to look at great works of art in their historical context. In this program, Glenshaw explores one of the most iconic patriotic images in American art—and one of the most reproduced—to reveal a surprising history that includes its creation in, of all places, Germany. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)
Smithsonian Chamber Music Society audiences are privy to the unparalleled experience of being able to hear two magnificent quartets of instruments—one made by Antonio Stradivari, the other by his teacher Nicoló Amati—in this popular four-concert series on Saturdays. This concert features music composed by Haydn, Bartók, and Beethoven.
In 1996, historian Anthony Cohen embarked on an 8-week, 1,200-mile journey tracing the Underground Railroad from Maryland to Canada. Traveling by foot, boat, and rail across five states, he visited towns, safehouses, African American communities, and Quaker sanctuaries, documenting freedom stories through artifacts, documents, and oral accounts. In 2026, marking the 30th anniversary of his walk and the nation’s 250th celebration, Cohen retraces his trek, sharing memories, images, and aspirations for a renewed journey of remembrance.
Learn clay techniques and gain an understanding of the human body, gestures, and expressions as you sculpt a portrait, torso, or full-figure piece by working from life.
Work with unglazed porcelain to create a modern interpretation of a classical mosaic inspired by motifs and subjects from the Roman and Byzantine periods.
For more than 70 years, the adventures of James Bond have thrilled readers and left them wondering if any of his escapades are actually possible. Kathryn Harkup, a former chemist, investigates 007’s exploits and the weapons, technologies, and tactics of his foes. During the process, she assesses the practicalities of building a volcano-based lair and whether being covered in gold paint really would kill you.
From ancient gods and goddesses to timeless heroic narratives, classical myths have long shaped artistic expression—but how do these age-old stories resonate in modern and postmodern art? Art historian Jennie Hirsh explores the surprisingly vital and often overlooked role of classical mythology in contemporary art, showing how artists use these stories not just to illustrate, but to engage with questions of identity, power, gender, and society. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)
