Monday PM   

Classic noir short stories — darkness, crime, the bleak side of the city on the Liffey. Come discuss the usual and unusual suspects, the aspects of crime and punishment in what once was known as the eye of the Celtic Tiger, Dublin. Stories by Ken Bruen, Laura Lippman, Olen Steinhauer, and others display that unique Irish blend of cynicism, humor, and despair. “To be Irish is to dance on the Titanic; laughter is indeed the best revenge, it’s our way of evening the score. You won’t find many leprechauns here.”

New in-person course. Format includes discussion.
REQUIRED BOOK: Dublin Noir: The Celtic Tiger vs. The Ugly American; Ed. Ken Bruen; ISBN 139781888451924

As America celebrates 250 years of independence, this course will examine the indispensable founder, George Washington. We will explore Washington's life and political leadership as well as his work as a farmer, entrepreneur, and architect. We will also review the groundbreaking work of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association (MVLA) which has owned and managed George Washington's Mount Vernon since 1858. In that year, an intrepid group of women (who had no right to vote or own property) came together to save George Washington's home, after both the Federal Government and Commonwealth of Virginiahad refused to help. MVLA formation marked the birth of the historic preservation movement. 

What makes an Oriental rug so captivating—its elegant design, intricate patterns, or the mystery of its origins? In this richly illustrated course, we will discover the stories woven into these remarkable textiles. We will travel through the history and artistry of rug and carpet weaving, a tradition rooted in Asia and North Africa, with examples dating back to the 4th century BCE. Using stunning visuals and expert insights, we will explore major carpet-making cultures and regions including Anatolia, Iran, Transcaucasia, North Africa, and Central Asia. We will learn to recognize defining features of Oriental rugs: weaving traditions (nomadic and settled), key historical periods (from the Early Modern era through the nineteenth-century), purposes (from prayer to decoration), and production contexts (from royal courts to bustling markets). We will also be introduced to basic methods for identifying weave structures and deepen our appreciation of these remarkable works of art. 

This course investigates the effect of Supreme Court decisions on our nation. Emphasis on how the court was established and how it has changed over the years. Emphasis on the current efforts of the Supreme Court and the effects of those decisions. Close explanation of efforts to reform the Supreme Court. 

Repeat in-person course with new content. Format includes lecture and discussion.