The University of Leicester is proud to launch an exhibition in honour of the 400th anniversary of the publication of Shakespeare’s First Folio. The event will take place at the David Wilson Library until April 24th.
The First Folio, published in 1623, is the first collected edition of William Shakespeare’s plays.
The university’s exhibition will feature items from its archives, and special collections, including an original Fourth Folio from 1685 and a King Lear annotated by the famous English actor David Garrick in 1776.
The exhibition will delve into Shakespeare’s library, showcasing the classical literature, historical chronicles, religious texts, and philosophical writings that inspired his poetic and dramatic works.
According to Dr. Christina Wolf from the Centre for International Training and Education (CITE), who collaborated on the exhibition, “The goal is to highlight the connections between Shakespeare’s work and the works of others and to display the rare items housed in the University of Leicester’s special collections.
This exhibition celebrates the publication of the First Folio 400 years ago and the efforts of Shakespeare’s editors in our time.”
Visitors to the exhibition will have the opportunity to see some of the most unique and precious pieces of Shakespearean history, including the annotated copy of King Lear, which provides a fascinating glimpse into the mind of one of England’s greatest actors.
The original Fourth Folio, one of only several hundred in existence, is a testament to the lasting legacy of Shakespeare’s plays and their impact on the world.
In addition to the physical artifacts on display, the exhibition will also feature interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations, offering a multi-sensory experience for visitors.
Visitors can expect to learn about the historical and cultural context surrounding Shakespeare and his works, the processes involved in creating the First Folio, and its lasting significance.
The University of Leicester is proud to be one of the few institutions in the world to possess such a rich collection of Shakespearean treasures.
The exhibition is a testament to the university’s commitment to preserving and sharing its cultural heritage with the public.
Whether you’re a Shakespeare aficionado or simply curious about the history of English literature, the University of Leicester’s exhibition celebrating the 400th anniversary of the First Folio is to be noticed.
So mark your calendars and head to the David Wilson Library for a unique and enlightening experience.
The exhibition is free and open to the public daily from 09:30 to 16:30 GMT.
