Programs

Get the scoop on the evolution of the women’s pages of newspapers and a female journalist who defied the staid conventions of her times and attracted millions of readers. Journalism professor Kimberly Voss explores the significance of the women’s sections, and journalist Allison Gilbert delves into Elsie Robinson’s career and life.

Art historian Janetta Rebold Benton leads a fascinating journey through some of the most creative and extreme examples of architecture constructed worldwide in recent years. From Dubai’s Burj Khalifa (the world’s highest building) to the Nautilus House in Mexico City (a giant psychedelic mollusk shell) to a Malibu residence designed around the wings of a decommissioned Boeing 747-100, the surprising structures blend innovation, technology, and imagination. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)

For nearly a thousand years, the Roman legions were the most successful infantry formation on a large part of the globe, carving out one of history’s mightiest empires. In heavy-soled hobnailed boots and precise cadence, they marched from the Atlantic to the Persian Gulf bringing terror and death—as well as order and civilization. Military historian Barry Strauss examines some of Rome’s greatest battlefield victories as well as its failures.

French Impressionist art, filled with color, light, and scintillating brushwork, was an act of extreme rebellion when it appeared in the 1870s. The work of modern masters Monet, Renoir, Degas, Cassatt, and Morisot led to the radical art of the next decades’ post-impressionists including Seurat, Cézanne, Gauguin, and Van Gogh. Art historian Nancy G. Heller explores the sources, masterpieces, and later influences of these rebels, including their impact on 20th century art. (World Art History Certificate core course, 1 credit)

Many young readers list reading J.D. Salinger’s blockbuster novel, The Catcher in the Rye, as one of their most formative experiences with literature. Joseph Luzzi, a professor of literature at Bard College, revisits this epochal work to see how it has aged since its publication in 1951, highlighting the ways in which readers continue to see themselves reflected in the tormented character of its complex protagonist, Holden Caulfield.

A key feature of the Byzantine Empire’s visual culture was an orientation toward religious themes as shaped by Orthodox Christianity. They were explored in a remarkable variety of media, from wall frescoes to miniature mosaics to exquisitely carved ivories. Art historian Aneta Georgievska-Shine explores some of the most important aspects of the visual arts of this empire at the cultural crossroads of west and east. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1 credit)

Looking for a choral program that celebrates memorable music across the decades? Ernest Johnson leads the ensemble in arrangements of the hits you know and love such as favorites by the Beatles, Carole King, the Beach Boys, Fleetwood Mac, and others. Singers receive instruction in vocal techniques that include exercises in healthy breath management and improving your tone and range, and rehearsals culminate in a free performance.

All great chefs know not to waste ingredients, time, or effort—and for master chef Jacques Pépin, this means thinking efficiently about cooking, even at home. Drawing from his new book Jacques Pépin Cooking My Way, the legendary cooking teacher joins chef Carla Hall for a lively conversation on cooking economically at home with techniques that save money, time, and cleanup effort—and provide delicious results.

Located just 15 miles outside Washington, the Great Falls of the Potomac is the most magnificent natural landmark in the metropolitan area. Rise early on an fall morning, avoid the crowds, and enjoy a small-group hiking experience with naturalist Keith Tomlinson. Examine the natural history of the area’s forest, observe a variety of birds, and learn about the effect of local land-use patterns on conservation efforts along the Potomac.

The Cloisters, the branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art devoted to medieval art, houses priceless objects such as the renowned illuminated book of hours, Belles Heures, of Jean, Duke of Berry; exquisite stained glass chapel windows; stone sculptures; painted icons; and a carved ivory cross. Tour the galleries and the three medieval-style gardens with art historian Ursula Wolfman. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)