What is the difference between a fake and a forgery? How do either of those differ from a copy? And why does authenticity matter in museum collections? In this tour, we’ll explore these questions with a wide range of objects in the Rosenbach’s collection. We’ll look at some of “Shakespeare’s” greatest works, a mug that once “belonged” to George Washington, a manuscript draft by Edgar Allan Poe, and more to uncover the truths and reveal the mysteries that follow fakes and forgeries. 

In this course, we will explore the complexity and depth of this extraordinary text, with close attention to issues related to language, kingship, old age, gender, and more.

What is the difference between a fake and a forgery? How do either of those differ from a copy? And why does authenticity matter in museum collections? On this tour, we’ll explore these questions by using a wide range of objects in the Rosenbach’s renowned collection.

This course on Midsummer Night’s Dream will be an interactive experience and will rely on your participation, enthusiasm, and free-flowing conversations. Each time we meet, we will practice a variety of reading techniques that will enable you to begin experiencing Midsummer (and eventually all of Shakespeare’s plays) more deeply and effectively on your own.