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When Elisabeth of Austria married Emperor Franz Joseph and Eugénie of France married Napoleon III, they became two of the most famous women of the 19th century. Young and beautiful, each represented a new kind of empress—one who rebelled against traditional expectations and restrictions. Historian Nancy Goldstone discusses the lives of these two glamorous women and how they played a pivotal role in ruling their realms.
From Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s Notes from a Dead House to Octavia Butler’s Parable of the Sower, literature offers a powerful medium for delving into profound questions about existence, free will, and the essence of reality. Philosophical counselor Samir Chopra examines philosophical themes found in literary genres such as the legal novel, post-apocalyptic fiction, and religious literature as he explores how literature can serve as a tool for moral education and instruction.
The largest museum library system in the world, Smithsonian Libraries and Archives holds more than 2 million items. Guided by Smithsonian librarians Jane Quigley and Leslie Overstreet, visit three research collections normally accessible to members of the public by appointment only: the National Museum of Natural History Library, the Joseph F. Cullman 3rd Library of Natural History, and the John Wesley Powell Library of Anthropology. In addition to brief presentations about the collections, selected books—from 16th-century illustrated herbals and accounts of Captain Cook’s voyages to 21st-century works naming new species of plants and animals by Smithsonian scientists—are on display for browsing, questions, and discussion.
A picture is not only worth a thousand words: It can sometimes inspire a whole invented world. In a 3-session series, art historian Heidi Applegate explores novels in which Thomas Gainsborough, Asher B. Durand, and Cuban American artist Ana Mendieta and their works play roles. She also examines the factual background along with the fiction.
Air Force One is more than a plane: It’s a global symbol of American power and leadership. The gleaming blue-and-white 747 reflects the policies and ideas of each president. Ken Walsh, who traveled more than 200 times aboard Air Force One as a White House correspondent for U.S. News & World Report, shares what happens in the air—from historic moments to the highs and lows that presidents experience.
Born enslaved on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Harriet Tubman seized her freedom in her mid-20s, and selflessly returned to rescue family members and others trapped in slavery. Kelly Hancock of the American Civil War Museum in Richmond explores Tubman’s early life, work as an abolitionist, and exploits during the Civil War, as well as her postwar humanitarian efforts and private life, creating a multifaceted portrait of a remarkable woman.
Home to practitioners of over 20 religions, Baltimore’s spiritual landscape is marked by hundreds of places of worship, each with its own story. Embark on an architectural journey visiting five sites with historian and deacon James Reaves, who showcases the beauty and history of these sacred structures.
The island of Murano has remained the heart of Venetian glassmaking since the late medieval period. Today, a blend of centuries-old traditions and contemporary experimentation keeps this extraordinary art form alive. Art historian Jennie Hirsh traces the rich history of Murano glassmaking, examines influential modern artisans and workshops, and offers insights into the best places in Venice to experience glass artistry today. (World Art History Certificate elective, 1/2 credit)
In-person Program: Go on an interactive exploration of the Natural History Museum and participate in hands-on crafts projects and games. Then roll out your sleeping bag and dream away in the darkened halls of one of the world’s most famous museums! Geared for children ages 8 to 14 years old, accompanied by an adult.
