From Scarlet Pimpernel to Horatio Hornblower – reading four early twentieth century romance novels
What is it about the historical romance that has attracted readers and writers? Are they pure escapism? Perhaps we can find clues by looking at some of the twentieth century roots of the genre. We will discuss ‘The Scarlet Pimpernel’ … More details …
Evolution of Classical Music
From caveman grunts to Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, and Debussy – join Ben England for a thrilling journey through the story of classical music. Ever wondered how the raw, primal sounds of our ancient ancestors evolved into the sweeping symphonies of … More details …
No Place for Ladies
Inspired by reading the diary of a woman who served in the Russian cavalry against Napoleon, the course highlights half a dozen other ladies who – accidentally or on purpose – found themselves involved in the wars of the early … More details …
Virgil’s “Aeneid” (Sarah Ruden verse translation)
In our reading and discussion of the “Aeneid”, we shall be looking at the mythology of the fall of Troy, the themes of fate and destiny, the importance of ‘pietas’ and ‘virtus’ in relation to the character of Aeneas. We … More details …
The Plantagenets: Monarchy, Knighthood, Chivalry
From Henry II to Richard II, eight Plantagenet kings ruled England. Throughout the period the monarchy provided a rich Kaleidoscope of personality and ability. The reigns of Richard I and King John will be briefly covered to avoid any repeat … More details …
The Art of Australia – Modern painting in the 20th century
How modern painting developed in Australia from the 1920s to the 1970s. This will include the wide range of painters of the post impressionist era known as the ‘Sydney Moderns’, the ‘Hiedi School and the painters of the post-war era.
More details ...The Origins of Us
How did we come to be here? According to current scientific understanding the Universe flared into existence 13 800 million years ago in an intense fireball. Within twenty minutes hydrogen nuclei had formed, and as the Universe cooled these were … More details …
Reading Paintings – The Dutch Golden Era
This day-school opens with a survey of the Dutch Golden Age in politics and art. We begin with the establishment of the Dutch Republic in 1588 and end with the Rampjaar (‘Terrible Year’) of 1672 when the French invaded and … More details …