Renowned feminist writer Germaine Greer, and children’s author, Michael Rosen, will pay tribute to Shakespeare at historic Keats House to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the Bard’s death.
The keynote talk is the highlight of the Hampstead museum’s upcoming spring programme of events, which was launched last week.
Professor Greer and former Children’s Laureate Mr Rosen will discuss Shakespeare’s sonnets and the hold the poems have had on its readers over the years, including Romantic poet John Keats, on February 10 from 7pm at the literary centre in Keats Grove.
Other events at the museum, which was Keats’ home from 1818 until 1820, include poetry workshops, Valentine’s Day card-making, and guided walks.
The programme begins on Sunday, when poet Dean Atta will perform with Jack Underwood to read from Happiness, his collection of poems.
Then on Valentine’s Day, on February 14, romantics can make a card for their loved ones while listening to Keats’ romantic poems and love letters, as well as live music at a pop-up bar.
On March 26, literature lovers can follow in the footsteps of John Keats and embark on a guided tour of the capital while listening to readings of his poems. Walkers will visit his birthplace in Moorgate before wandering over to places where he lived and studied, including Cheapside, Apothecaries’ Hall, and Guy’s Hospital.
Another trail on April 9 will explore the relationship between Keats and Shakespeare, and the influence of the Bard on the Romantic poet’s work.
Later that same month, on April 26, Professor Bernard Beatty will give a talk about the different experiences of Shakespeare, Keats and Lord Byron at Keats House, in partnership with the Byron Society.
Vicky Carroll, principal curator at Keats House, said: “My colleagues and I are delighted that Germaine Greer and Michael Rosen will discuss Shakespeare’s poetry in a keynote event in our January to April events programme which, as ever, will feature something for everyone.
“Guided walks in leafy Hampstead and the bustling Square Mile, poetry readings and workshops, family events, and a wonderfully romantic Valentine’s Day event will help keep Keats’s legacy alive and remind people of the power of poetry.”
For more details about the events programme, visit the City of London’s website or call 020 7332 3868.
Many of the events, even free ones, require advance booking to secure a place. Book online.
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