Four centuries and many changes to the English language have passed since Shakespeare wrote. Here’s why we still read his works.
Tag Archives: Culture & Society
World Without Borders
The late Garry Davis, a former bomber pilot haunted by his World War II experiences, hoped to unite all of mankind by eliminating national boundaries.
Descendants of Chinese Laborers Reclaim Railroad’s History
The first transcontinental railroad transformed America and came to symbolize a new spirit of unity and cooperation. Yet for decades after its completion, the Chinese workers who made the railroad’s construction possible were overlooked. Recently, steps have been taken to remedy this historical injustice.
Children of the Fifty-Sixers: Growing up in Hungarian Chicago
Author Rebecca Makkai reflects on how her father’s escape from Communist-controlled Hungary in 1956 still echoes in her life in the United States.
The Psychology Of Vanity Sizing
With more and more Americans worried about their weight, clothing makers are making shifts in sizing to make customers feel better about themselves. Read this article to learn more about “vanity sizing.”
‘Nature Is a Powerful Teacher’: The Educational Value of Going Outside
In Boston’s schools, an initiative is creating outdoor spaces for learning and having great success. Students and teachers are finding that these outdoor classrooms are improving education.
Destination America
What is it about the United States that convinces citizens of other nations to leave their homes and lives behind? Visit this site to explore the answers, along with the personal stories of immigrants from Guatemala, Iran, Tibet, the Soviet Union, Taiwan, and Mexico. While you’re there, be sure to browse the photo archives and genealogical resources.
Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots
Learn about this global organization that helps young people identify the challenges they can address in their own communities.
“12 Years a Slave” based on true story
The film 12 Years a Slave is hailed as one of the most accurate portrayals of slavery to come to the movie screen. In this short clip, you will see some scenes from the film and meet the screenwriter.
What if the Secret to Success Is Failure?
What role should character development play in education, and who should be responsible for teaching it? Is failure an essential part of success? Discover how two very different New York schools address these questions.
Shakespeare in Scotland: What did the author of Macbeth know and when did he know it?
Some scholars have long maintained that someone other than William Shakespeare authored some of the Bard’s best-known works. This article explores the idea that a writer with a deeper knowledge of Scotland than Shakespeare could have had must have penned Macbeth.
In-groups, out-groups, and the psychology of crowds
It’s easy to fall into the trap of seeing the world as “us” vs. “them.” However, it’s much more constructive to take a step back and see how much “they” really are like “us.” A psychology professor provides some background and tips for avoiding bias.
American Experience: Freedom Riders
In 1961, a diverse group of activists rode interstate buses to several southern cities, violating laws that did not allow African Americans to sit at the front of the bus or alongside white riders. This simple act sparked violent responses that drew attention to the civil rights cause. Explore the route and hear the voices of the Freedom Riders through this interactive site.
Why Are Eyewitnesses Unreliable?
“I saw it with my own eyes!” A statement from someone who witnessed an event is usually taken as absolute proof of the truth—but how reliable are eyewitnesses, really? Charles W. Bryant digs into some of the problems with relying on eyewitness testimony.
Proudly Bearing Elders’ Scars, Their Skin Says ‘Never Forget’
Descendants of Holocaust survivors remember and honor their loved ones in many different ways. Read how some are trying to keep these events fresh in the minds of those who did not live through the times.
Teen entrepreneurs think ‘outside the box’ when starting their own businesses
Have you ever thought about starting your own business? In this article, 17-year-old Drayton Blackgrove and several other teens share their experiences in entrepreneurship.
Undocumented journalist describes immigrant experience, American dream
The work of award-winning journalist Jose Antonio Vargas explores the immigrant experience and the road to American citizenship.
Adolescence and the Agony of Decision Making
Psychologist Carl Pickhardt explains why it’s hard for teenagers to make decisions and offers some advice.
The Harlem Renaissance
Did you ever wonder what the Harlem Renaissance looked like? See for yourself by watching a video about this age of discovery for modern African-American literature, art, and music.
Did the United States put its own citizens in concentration camps during WWII?
After the attack on Pearl Harbor, the United States government relocated many Japanese Americans to internment camps. This article gives more information about how and why this happened.