In addition to his great dramas, Shakespeare wrote poems. We will discuss selected sonnets and his fascinating “Phoenix and the Turtle.” The approach will be new critical, with close readings, and new historical, placing the poems in their historical and social context. Prior knowledge of Shakespeare is not necessary, just a love or fascination with language and words and a willingness to participate in discussion.

This class repeats every Tuesday on March 29, April 5, 12.

Convener: William Baker is Distinguished Professor, Emeritus, Northern Illinois University and also holds visiting professorships in Chinese universities and at the University of Bedfordshire in England. He has had the privilege of teaching poetry at LLI previously and learns much from doing so.

The NIU Lifelong Learning Institute (LLI), established in 2000, is a member-directed group of individuals primarily age 50 plus who enjoy learning in informal, flexible, non-competitive groups and like connecting with peers who share their interests. No grades, no tests – just Learning for the Fun of It.