The Smithsonian Libraries in Washington DC, one of the world’s largest museum and research libraries, is proud to host a journey through rare and unique materials for the celebration of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night.
Uncovering the Hidden Gems of Twelfth Night at the Smithsonian Libraries
The exhibition showcases an amazing collection of manuscripts, books, and artwork, all with a common theme: the enduring relevance and fascination of Shakespeare’s play. Twelfth Night is one of Shakespeare’s most celebrated comedies, and this exhibition is a must-see for any fan of either the play or the great master poet and playwright himself.
The library’s collection of rare materials is extensive, and includes first editions of Shakespeare’s plays, as well as other Shakespeare-related texts, such as contemporary criticisms and commentary, and even the first translation of Twelfth Night into German. Other interesting items on display include manuscript drafts of Shakespeare’s plays, original artwork, and even a rare recording of a performance of the play from the early 20th century.
One of the highlights of the exhibition is an original manuscript of Twelfth Night. This incredible document is a handwritten copy of the play, which was made around 1630, just over a decade after Shakespeare’s death. The manuscript has been superbly preserved, and is open for visitors to view and study.
Another fascinating item on display is a collection of original artwork, depicting various scenes and characters from Twelfth Night. The artwork is from the 19th century, and was created by a renowned artist named Robert Smirke. The museum has several of Smirke’s original drawings, which are incredibly detailed, and capture the essence of Shakespeare’s characters and scenes in a way that is truly remarkable.
Finally, the exhibition also includes a rare recording of a performance of Twelfth Night, which dates back to 1905. The recording is of a performance in London, and is a testament to the enduring popularity of the play. It is fascinating to listen to the actors, who employ techniques that are very different from those used in modern productions of the play. This recording, along with the other incredible items on display, helps visitors to appreciate the richness of Shakespeare’s work, as well as the ongoing significance of Twelfth Night as a masterpiece of comedy.
In conclusion, the Twelfth Night exhibition at the Smithsonian Libraries is an exceptional opportunity for visitors to experience the richness and depth of Shakespeare’s work, as well as to explore the amazing collection of rare and unique materials that is housed in the library. It is a remarkable celebration of one of the greatest playwrights of all time, and is sure to leave visitors feeling deeply inspired and engaged. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the world of Twelfth Night and Shakespeare, and to explore some of the most fascinating treasures of the Smithsonian Libraries.