10 Ways Shakespeare Changed the Way You Talk
Source: History
Some of the words and phrases we use everyday were invented by Shakespeare! Learn about the history of these words and the plays that debuted them.
Arts & Entertainment
Artist M.C. Escher Spent a Lifetime Distorting Perspective
Source: PBS NewsHour
M.C. Escher was a Dutch graphic designer known for his innovative optical illusions, impossible drawings, and transforming tessellations, or interlocking tiles that slowly morphed from images like squares to fish to birds and back again. This video is from an exhibition of Escher’s art, which is no longer on display, but it nicely summarizes both his distinctive style and his continuing impact on popular culture.
The Joy and Misery of Hunting for Video Game Trophies
Source: Wired
Many modern video games include a list of achievements that players can earn as they play. These trophies often reward the player for taking actions beyond the normal plot or path of the basic story. For some, achievements reward creative gameplay, add replayability, and encourage exploration. For others, they are annoying, repetitive distractions that artificially make a game seem bigger or more complex than it is. What do you think? Do achievements make games feel more or less enjoyable?
150 years of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, overlooked icon of Black classical music
Source: npr
Though countless music fans around the world celebrate the work of composer Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, there are still many who have never heard of him. Learn about his impressive music career and the movement to keep his legacy alive.
Self-taught pianist makes mark at graduation
Source: ksat.com
| Lights, camera, action! Imagine turning your bedroom into a concert stage and teaching yourself to play piano. Meet Ana Castillo, a senior from San Antonio who did just that. |
The Legend of Halloween
Source: History.com
Halloween is a celebrated each year on October 31. The tradition originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. Learn more about the myths and legends surrounding this festival of frights by clicking this link.
Ireland: The Home of Halloween Traditions
Source: Ireland.com
The historical roots of Halloween date back to the Celtic celebration of Samwain (pronounced “sow-in” or “sah-win”). In modern times, Ireland plays host to some of the largest Halloween parties in the world, including a massive three-day festival in Derry and a Púca Festival in the towns of Trim and Athboy (a púca, or pooka, is a mischievous, shapeshifting spirit). Follow this link to learn more.
Music in the Revolutionary War
Source: Mount Vernon
This article describes how music was used to signal and entertain soldiers during the American Revolution, including General Washington himself.
Students learning English perform Shakespeare play
Source: BBC
Deciphering Shakespeare can be challenging for readers at all levels. However, these students are mastering English language skills by preforming an entire Shakespeare play!
How realistic are movie dinosaurs?
Source: npr
Many of us love the Jurassic Park movies, including real-life paleontologist Matt Lamanna. Listen, or read the transcript, to learn from a dino expert which details are scientific fact, and which ones are pure movie magic.