• Photo: Lloyd Wolf

    The History of Shakespeare in American Schools

    On our Shakespeare Unlimited podcast, Joseph Haughey explains the evolution of the English curriculum in American classrooms, and, in particular, the role of Shakespeare.

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    The Merry Wives of Windsor

    Folger Theatre presents Shakespeare’s delightful comedy on love, money, deception, and the power of women, in which Falstaff’s dubious plan to woo Windsor’s wealthy housewives (Regina Aquino and Ami Brabson, pictured) is met with hilarious retaliation. Directed by Aaron Posner with a 1970s twist. Onstage through Mar 1

    Buy Tickets Special Performances

  • Photo: Elman Studio

    Folger Institute: Scholarly Programs

    As the Folger embarks on a major building renovation, scholarly programs will continue at other locations, starting with a spring semester seminar at Syracuse University on early modern Iroquoia.

    Early Modern Iroquoia 2020 Changes for Researchers

  • Photo: Elman Studio

    The First Folio

    The First Folio is the first collected edition of Shakespeare’s works, published in 1623. Without it, 18 of his plays might have been lost forever. Learn more about this remarkable book—and the Folger's collection of First Folios, the largest in the world.

    About the First Folio About the Folger Collection

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    Building Renovation

    Our historic building is undergoing a major renovation beginning in early 2020 to expand public space, improve accessibility, and enhance the experience for all who come here. The project is supported by the $50 million Wonder of Will campaign.

    About the Renovation The Wonder of Will

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INSIDE THE PLAYS

Cursing Coriolanus and Combating Cornhoarders

In 1608, famine plagued England. Preachers responded with sermons begging the gentry to show compassion for the poor, King James I responded with royal proclamations against grain hoarding, and Shakespeare responded with Coriolanus, a Roman revenge-tragedy.

Read the Blog Post About Coriolanus

FOLGER FINDS

Anne Finch: Women Writers in the Folger Collection

The Folger holds the most important manuscript book of the works of Anne Finch, Countess of Winchilsea (1661–1720). Learn about this remarkable poet and playwright.

Read the Blog Post

EARLY MODERN LIFE

All About Animals

“Wild Things” is a new series that will explore the conflicting relationships between humans and animals as they appear in Shakespeare's works and in early modern life.

Read the Blog Post

FROM THE DIRECTOR

Shakespeare is our middle name. We are stewards of a precious resource of world heritage and culture—a living tradition that offers something truly elevating.
Michael Witmore
Folger Shakespeare Library Director
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  • The Merry Wives of Windsor: now on stage!

    Don't miss our last at-home production before Folger renovations begin! Shakespeare's delightful comedy on love, money, deception, and the wiles of women, is on stage through March 1 only. Directed by Aaron Posner with a 1970s twist. 

    Tickets & Information

  • Folger Consort at National Cathedral

    Our season celebrating the early music of Italy comes to the Washington National Cathedral on Feb. 7 & 8 with transcendant music by Palestrina and other composers of the late Italian Renaissance. With British vocal ensemble Stile Antico.

    Tickets & Information

  • Folger Poetry: Love & Happiness

    Three poets—George Bilgere, Tim Seibles, and Keith S. Wilson—read together for a night of uplifting humor and luminous praise on the themes of love and happiness on Tuesday, February 24 at 7:30pm. Wine reception and book-signing to follow.

     

    Tickets & Information

Upcoming at the Folger

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Folger Education

Classroom Resources for Teaching Shakespeare

Folger Education works alongside teachers to develop engaging, effective tools for helping students have successful classroom encounters with Shakespeare and other complex texts.

Learn More