Reading Groups

A Republic on the Brink: Reading Julius Caesar in an Election Year with Lauren Yanks

6 Sessions Thursdays, 6:30 pm EDT - 8:00 pm EDT October 3 to November 7, 2024

Online via Zoom

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The ‘With Book’ option includes the title required for this group at a 10% discount from our Bookstore.

Meeting Dates:
10/3, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/7
Held Online via Zoom

“The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves.” —Julius Caesar (Act 1, Scene 2)

Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar challenges readers to consider the upheavals and emotional turmoil that come with power and politics. It asks us to think critically about the meaning of citizenship—about our rights and responsibilities—and invites readers to explore ambition, service, loyalty, greed, envy, and the defining qualities of leadership. The play also raises timeless questions about the nature of justice and how individuals are called to act in times of uncertainty and fear. At the heart of Julius Caesar lies the question: How should we act if we think our republic is at risk of becoming a dictatorship?

As we read, we will look at the historical context of both Caesar and Shakespeare, who wrote the play circa 1599. We’ll also examine the conflict, themes, and inner lives behind all the characters, considering which aspects relate to our society today—especially amidst a defining presidential race in the United States that leaves many people questioning the future of this country. Has the nature of humanity and power evolved? By reading and discussing the play (in addition to relevant journals, articles, and film) participants will attempt to answer that question and gain a better understanding of the art of drama, Shakespeare, and history along the way.

What to read in advance of the first meeting: Act 1, Scene 1 of Julius Caesar

What to expect from this reading group: The class will include discussion guided by the group leader and the particular interests and questions participants. Everyone will be encouraged to share their thoughts and ideas freely.

Reading List: Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare

Capacity: 20

Please note: All virtual classes are recorded. Please click here for information about our recording policy.

Led by

Lauren Yanks

Lauren Yanks

Lauren Yanks has a Master of Fine Arts in Writing and Literature from NYU and a Master of Divinity from Yale University. She has been a literature and writing professor for over 20 years and has published hundreds of articles and journals on a wide variety of topics.

About this series

Reading Groups

Whether you’re looking to catch up on great novels or you’re interested in exploring a new writer or literary period, our reading groups offer high-level literary discussion led by experts in the field.

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