- DURATION 4 x 60 mins
Event Description
This workshop series aims to explore the lives, works, and cultural impacts of some of the most celebrated authors from the the British Isles. Through engaging presentations and interactive discussions, attendees will gain insights into the literary achievements of these authors, locations related to their lives and stories and, of course, their contributions to British literature
Session 1: The Bard and Beyond: Exploring Shakespeare's Literature and Legacy
This workshop will immerse you in the life, works, and enduring influence of William Shakespeare. You will discover Shakespeare's life in 16th century England, from his origins in Stratford-upon-Avon to success as an actor-playwright in London. Ponder his exploration of universal themes like love, death, politics and madness and see why his works have resonated for centuries and shaped culture, language and literature.
Session 2: The Life and Legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson: From Sickly Child to World Renowned Author
This workshop explores the remarkable life and innovative works of Robert Louis Stevenson. Despite illness, Stevenson overcame a sickly childhood to become a renowned author, poet and traveller. Discover Stevenson's journey from Scotland to the South Pacific, following his
quests for inspiration and adventure. We will explore some of his most famous tales, including Treasure Island, Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, and A Child's Garden of Verses.
Session 3: The Girl Who Talked to Frogs: Beatrix Potter's Life in Letters and Legacies
This workshop offers an intimate look at the inspirational life and timeless vision of one of Britain's most beloved authors, The Girl Who Talked to Frogs: Beatrix Potter. We will glimpse the magic of her worlds, the joy of her journeys and the spirit of possibility she represents. Though most knew Potter as a children's author, her intellect, wit and determination were fiercely intelligent and defiantly progressive. Her writings and legacy prove that stories can transform how we see ourselves and each other.
Session 4: Dickensian Days: A Journey Through Victorian England's Master Storyteller
Charles Dickens was Victorian England's most celebrated author and champion of the poor. This workshop immerses you in Dickens's life, illuminating the world that shaped his masterful stories. We’ll explore Dickens' life, from humble beginnings to fame as a novelist, social reformer and philanthropist. Through insights into Victorian life, philosophy and culture, we develop a deeper understanding of Dickens's vivid world-building and timeless messages. We see how his tales address injustice, morality, alienation and hope. We realise their lasting power to illuminate humanity's enduring struggles and capacity for change.
- Duration: 4 x 60 mins
- Online Zoom event: Join from your computer, phone or tablet (no replay available)
Meet the Host, Lisa
Lisa Sarah Barnes is a professional writer, English teacher, literary guide and holistic therapy practitioner. With a passion for language, literature and lifelong learning, she works with individuals and groups around the world to help unlock potential through the written and spoken word. Originally from Lancashire in northern England, she is about to embark on a new adventure cruising the British waterways on a narrowboat. She teaches English as a Foreign Language at private language schools as well as offering one-on-one guidance to students worldwide via online courses. Outside the classroom, she leads literary themed tours and online workshops, exploring the neighbourhoods and venues that inspired famous authors like Dickens, Carroll, Orwell and others.
Lisa is also a certified practitioner of stress management, reiki, massage, bibliotherapy and nutrition, applying holistic techniques to help reduce stress and enhance wellbeing. Driven by a curiosity for discovering lives and locations hidden within the pages of books, Lisa curates inspirational content promoting UK travel, culture, history and nature. She aims to spark in her readers a love of literature, an appreciation of heritage and an enthusiasm for adventure.
Preparing for the Event
For the best experience, you will need to have Zoom downloaded onto your computer. Please ensure you're connected to broadband/wifi rather than using your mobile phone connection (3G/4G).
We also recommend that pets are either calmly sitting on your lap or in another room, and any refreshments you may require are within your reach!
More Information
What if I can’t make the event?
If a recording’s available for the event, you can still register for it and we will send you an email with a link to a recording shortly after it ends.
Will my camera be on and will I be visible to the other people?
Your camera and microphone does not need to be on for you to enjoy the event. The choice about whether to do this is completely yours.
How do I watch the live event?
Rest Less events are hosted on Zoom, a computer application that allows you to attend online events just by clicking a link. For detailed instructions, please go to our "FAQ" page, which you can find a link to in the nav bar at the top of the page.
How do I sign-up for and access the recording? (Recorded events only)
Book the event as normal (as if you are attending live). After the event ends you will automatically receive a post-event email with a link to the recording, as long as the event was recorded. You do not need to do anything else and there is no separate booking process for recordings only. Please note it can take up to 24 hours for Zoom to process recordings.