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  • Savoring Shakespeare’s “Richard III”     
  • with John H. Miller, Ph.D.
  • Suzanne Sanders

Read, discuss, & savor Shakespeare with John & Suzanne. See the dramatic Wars of the Roses through the twisted mind of “Richard III,” as he lies and murders his way to the top!

The Savoring Shakespeare series explores Shakespeare’s works at a relaxed pace, the better to enjoy their heights and plumb their powerful depths. We read the plays together, discussing plot, themes, and our feelings as we go along. John Miller and Suzanne Sanders assist, giving definitions and highlighting key details, but the main direction of the classes will be decided by your interests. They hope to cover an act a week. You can come for one play, some, or all.

This exploration is a look at Shakespeare’s treatment of history. “Richard III” is set during the Wars of the Roses, when the Lancaster and York families caused a civil war in their fight for the crown of England. The Yorks seem to have won; Edward of York is King. But what does that mean for his lethal brother, Richard? He’s a war machine, not built for peacetime. Shakespeare lets us peek into his mind and feel his charisma as he takes the psychopath’s road to the top. Again and again, Richard tells us just what horrible thing he plans to do — and then he goes and does it. It’s delightful and disturbing at the same time. Is it wrong to feel for the anti-hero?

To keep everyone on the same page, we recommend you use the Folger Shakespeare Library’s version of “Richard III,” edited by Barbara Mowatt and Paul Werstine, 2018.  There’s also a free version of it on the Folger website.

Join us for this, the third course of our series, where we give the Bard’s masterpieces the time they deserve.

What to Expect:  By strolling through this play together, you and the rest of the class will help one another enjoy Shakespeare’s unparalleled insights into the human condition. Reading and discussing in depth at an easy pace, you’ll strengthen your understanding of the plot, themes, and characters. John and Suzanne will help you appreciate the word play and imagery. And we’ll laugh at the jokes together!

Feedback from John and Suzanne’s past courses:

“The course was wonderful. John and Suzanne are so masterful with their deep knowledge of Shakespeare.  I will be sure to register for their next course!”

“More than excellent. John and Suzanne have definitely outdone themselves. Their mastery of the material and their recitations were great and what was even more fabulous was their translation/interpretation of the humor!!!”

“The instructors of this course are not only knowledgeable and passionate about their subject; they are giddily happy by it! Infectious!”

IN PERSON course at the Easton Family YMCA (no recording) | 5 sessions | Tuesdays | April 23, 30, May 7, 14, 21 | 1 – 2:30 pm | $50

John Miller

John H. Miller, Ph.D.

John Miller has taught literature courses at both secondary and college levels, including American Literature at the University of Clermont-Ferrand, France, under a Fulbright Fellowship. He has also taught at the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, Washington College, American University, and the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s Academy for Lifelong Learning. Given his interest in things maritime he taught a course on literature of the sea as Visiting Lecturer and member of the University of Virginia’s faculty on two separate round-the-world voyages with UVA’s “Semester at Sea” program. John is also involved in several local non-profit organizations, currently serving as President of Allegro Academy, and Board Member of Chesapeake Forum. John earned his Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh, with a BA from Yale.

Suzanne Sanders

Suzanne Sanders

Suzanne Sanders earned a BA in Humanities from Johns Hopkins because, “hey, somebody has to balance out all those pre-med students.” She has worked as a journalist, bartender, metaphysical manager, poet, full-tilt mom, and Russian translator. She has taught the occasional class at Chesapeake College and volunteers at the library. She is Co-Chair of Faculty Relations (with John) for Chesapeake Forum. She and her husband are currently lacking in the kitten department.

  • Cost: $50
  • Semester: Spring 2024
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