Wordsworth, Coleridge, Shelley, Keats, Byron, Blake. You know the names, but do you know their poetry? If not, here is an opportunity to engage with writing that changed the course of the English literary tradition. If yes, then join us as we take a fresh look at poetry that engages deeply with nature, that challenges us to live intensely and meaningfully, and that questions our individual relationship with society. This fall, we will look at the themes that engaged Wordsworth, Coleridge and Blake, and next spring, the genres and styles of Shelley, Keats, Byron. Join us for one or both semesters as we explore the revolutionary impact and enduring legacy of the Big Six!

Format: Coordinators provide topics for short presentations on an aspect of the poet’s life, themes, or style. Participants select from a list of topics for a presentation of no more than 10-15 minutes and provide a few discussion questions about the week’s poems. Bibliography and other helpful materials will be provided.

Resources/Expenses: The Penguin Book of Romantic Poetry (Penguin Classics, 2006), J. and J. Wordsworth, eds is available used from $12.29 or new in paperback from $24, at Amazon.