Skip to main content

The Humanities Lab

Feed your curiosity, grow your mind, and enjoy smart conversation with the Humanities Lab, a full day course where you can talk with scholars, get up close with the Folger collection, and see a play. It’s fun, and there’s no homework!

Two people discussing a Folger collection item in the Reading Room
Photo by Lloyd Wolf

Not your typical class

If you love literature, history, and drama, these courses are for you. Everyone’s welcome, whether you’re completely new to Shakespeare or a total nerd.

And the time commitment for each course is minimal: one Saturday, and registration includes theatre tickets and lunch.

Don’t expect a typical classroom setting. We’ll get you up on your feet, speaking Shakespeare’s lines, sticking your nose in books (the really old kind!), exploring our exhibitions before opening, and learning forward at the edge of your seat in our theatre.

Two people talking in the Great Hall
Photo by Lloyd Wolf

Course information

We’re running three courses this season, in October, March, and June. Each one costs $150, which includes the price of your theater ticket, lunch, and breakfast goodies. Folger Members pay only $125. Become a member

Mark your calendars for our upcoming courses. Registration opens in August:

  • Saturday, October 17, 2026
  • Saturday, March 20, 2027
  • Saturday, June 12, 2027

Please note: These classes are for adults. Participants should be at least 18 years old. For programming for students, please visit: https://www.folger.edu/teach/student-programs/

Past courses

 

Humanities Lab: Imagining Shakespeare
Two women looking over a case in a museum exhibit

Humanities Lab: Imagining Shakespeare

Dive into themes in the Folger exhibitions while talking with scholars, exploring the Folger collection, and seeing a play as part of this course at the Folger.
Wed, Jun 17, 2026, 5:30pm
This Event Has Passed
The Humanities Lab: As You Like It
Woman looking at an object on the wall

The Humanities Lab: As You Like It

Learn more about As You Like It by talking with scholars, exploring the Folger collection, and seeing a play as part of this two-day course.
Wed, Mar 11 & Wed, Mar 18, 2026
This Event Has Passed
The Humanities Lab: Julius Caesar and Julius X

The Humanities Lab: Julius Caesar and Julius X

Learn more about Julius Caesar by talking with scholars, exploring the Folger collection, and seeing a play as part of this two-day course.
Wed, Oct 1 & Wed, Oct 8, 2025
This Event Has Passed