Early modern life

Many Shakespeare fans don’t think of themselves as “math people.” But in Shakespeare’s world, math and literature were deeply intertwined. Mathematician Rob Eastaway explores how numbers, patterns, and mathematical ideas shaped Shakespeare’s plays.

What do we know about the historical reality of Aqua Tofana and other stories of women wielding poisons? The truth is very little. But like most historical parables, the myths are just as telling as the reality.

A look at the many roles that musicians played aboard Early Modern ships.

Shakespeare mentions tennis in seven of his plays. But would he recognize the game we enjoy today? A Tudor history of the game with Shakespeare quotes about tennis.

A closer look at 17th century engraved rings in the Folger’s collection

Bess of Hardwick was the other famous Bess in Elizabethan England, after “Good Queen Bess,” aka Queen Elizabeth. Fabulously wealthy and savvy, she outlived four husbands, rising in status with each one. Trace her evolving power in letters from her last three husbands.

Fellow Jamie Gemmell explores how race was performed in the annual London Lord Mayor’s Show

Fellow Jean Marie Christensen explores beauty standards of the 17th century.

Explore fireworks in our collection, which include illustrations from extravagant public spectacles and technical manuals with instructions for making your own.

Angela McShane and Christopher Marsh share the most popular songs of 17th-century England discovered through their 100 Ballads project which features new recordings, ballad broadsheets, and more. Explore the soundtrack of Shakespeare’s world.

Explore a uniquely inscribed Book of Hours presented to Henry VIII by his fourth wife, Anne of Cleves.

Who were the ladies-in-waiting to each of Henry VIII’s six wives and what were their lives like? An excerpt from Nicola Clark’s The Waiting Game looks at these overlooked but influential figures.