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William Shakespeare's Hometown: Exploring Stratford-upon-Avon with Don Brown
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Together we will look at the house he was born in, where he went to school, the house he bought as a rich man, and the church where he is buried. Along the way, we will discover more about the life and times of the 'Swan of Avon', about his parents, wife, and children. The Shakespeare family is a key reason why more than 100,000 travelers choose to visit Stratford upon Avon each year.
Led by Blue Badge Guide Don Brown, who frequently takes visitors to Stratford-Upon-Avon, this Conversation will give insights into the early life of William Shakespeare, and of the influences on his later career. Designed to inform curiosity as well as future travels, participants will come away knowing much more about this memorable town and its most famous son.
Don Brown is a London Blue Badge Guide, the Director of the London Society and a graduate of Oxford University. He previously worked in publishing, for publications as diverse as History Today, The Spectator and The Guardian. His interests and specialisms encompass history - from the Romans to the present day, politics, WW2, and ‘60s and ‘70s popular music, and as director of the London Society he has a professional interest in architecture (contemporary and historical), planning and urbanism.
This conversation is suitable for all ages.
90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.
Don did an excellent job of showing us the location and pictures of the most significant locations that we might want to see on a trip to Stratford. He also gave us lots of background information about what was and was not known about Shakespeare and his life events.
Don Brown knows his stuff. Gave enough detail, and did not stray from his topic. Ample time for Q&A
Excellent conversation! I really liked that Don Brown kept equal focus on the town and its treasures as on its most famous citizen. Great Q&A session. I learned a lot and want to go back to Strateford-upon-Avon at first chance!
I thoroughly enjoyed this seminar by Don Brown. It brought back memories of visiting Stratford-upon-Avon in 1978 and 1990. His background information was so interesting and the descriptions of the family enlightening. The photos and maps helped in the virtual visit. I always love the history and Don always includes such descriptions. This was a great way to revisit and reminisce and learn more!
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