In partnership with the Folger Shakespeare Library

In collaboration with the Folger Shakespeare Library, we explore the libretto for John Blow’s Venus and Adonis, based on Shakespeare’s poem, along with some of the Restoration-era’s female literary voices.

The work of Anne Kingsmill Finch, Countess of Winchilsea (1661-1720), provides a focus for this discussion of attribution, collaboration, and early feminist literature. Her collection of poetry—published only as “Written by a Lady”—explores romance, social justice, and mental health struggles. In addition, Finch is credited as the librettist for this early English opera of Venus and Adonis, though the unique, irreverent text may also have ties to Aphra Behn and Anne Killigrew.

Folger Library Director Mike Witmore will be in conversation with Dr. Jennifer Keith, Folger Institute Fellow (2014-15) and editor of the forthcoming Cambridge Edition of The Works of Anne Finch. After the talk, Director of Collections Greg Prickman will guide you through related rare materials from the Folger collection.

Paster Reading Room

Folger Shakespeare Library

201 E Capitol St SE

Washington, DC

Tickets: $15 general admission | $10 tickets are available for Opera Lafayette subscribers