Event—Adult Education

‘The Cause of Labour is the Hope of the World’: William Morris, Artist and Social Visionary

William Morris (1834-1896) is best known for his Victorian-era designs, textiles, and art work. But Morris was also a social visionary who advocated the right of everyone to meaningful work and a peaceful and cultured life. In this course, we will explore Morris’s artistic and political journey from Pre-Raphaelite romantic to pathbreaking designer to international socialist...

Cost and Registration Information

Early Registration Price (August 27 at 9 am** – September 13 at 4 pm): $280
Regular Registration Price (September 13 at 4 pm – first day of class): $308

** Registration opens online at 9 am. Phone registration will be accepted starting at 10 am.

Members, seniors, and students get a 10% discount.

Online registration has closed. Please call (312) 255-3700 to register.

Seminar Description

William Morris (1834-1896) is best known for his Victorian-era designs, textiles, and art work. But Morris was also a social visionary who advocated the right of everyone to meaningful work and a peaceful and cultured life. In this course, we will explore Morris’s artistic and political journey from Pre-Raphaelite romantic to pathbreaking designer to international socialist. Topics include the “Age of Revolution,” the Pre-Raphaelite rebellion, Morris’s contribution to decorative design, the re-emergence of the British labor movement, and Morris as socialist.

Eight sessions. E - $280, L - $308

Brooke Heagerty holds a PhD in history and has led several courses at the Newberry. She has a special admiration for William Morris and his work. She is currently working on a study of the power of history and memory.

Materials List

Required:

  • A free digital course packet of additional material, compiled by the instructor and distributed electronically before the seminar begins. **Please note that you can purchase a printed copy at an additional cost to be paid at the first session (cash or check accepted).

First Reading:

  • For the first class, please read the file that will be sent upon registration, in the confirmation email.

This class is part of the Newberry’s Adult Education Seminars Program. Learn more about our registration procedures.