J.R.R. Tolkien was a towering figure in the world of twentieth-century English letters. His labors on Beowulf continue to shape the literary landscape, his work on the Oxford English Dictionary still serves, and his groundbreaking thoughts about the role and purpose of fairy stories gave focus to the thoughts of C.S. Lewis and other Inklings. […]
With wit, insight, and passion, Professor Loomis brings Shakespeare to life in ways that are both entertaining and inspiring. In this one-hour Zoom session, she will share strategies for engaging your students and providing rich historical context through her presentation, “Teenage Shakespeare.” This session will explore what life was like for teenagers in Shakespeare’s time, as well […]
We are thrilled to announce an exclusive event in partnership with The Faulkner Society — and you are on the guest list! ESU Members enjoy a $25 discount on registration and are cordially invited to a private Brunch hosted by our Chairman, Dr. E. Quinn Peeper, on Sunday, September 28, 2025. This intimate gathering promises […]
Co-Authors Dr. Robin Werner and her colleague, Dr. Elizabeth Lewis, will discuss their book titled Vampire Literature: An Anthology. Specifically, they will talk about the anthology’s inspiration and the challenges of the creation process. Vampire Literature: An Anthology is the first anthology designed specifically to introduce students and general readers to the history, theory, and […]
Sponsored by the ESU Central Pennsylvania Branch The name D’Oyly Carte is recognized throughout the world because of Richard D’Oyly Carte’s partnership with Gilbert and Sullivan, which produced fourteen famous comic operas during the last quarter of the 19th Century such as H.M.S. Pinafore, The Pirates of Penzance, and The Mikado. Richard D’Oyly Carte (1844-1901) […]
Join the ESU for an exclusive online professional development workshop live via Zoom from Shakespeare’s Globe in London. Explore four of Shakespeare’s most fascinating women—Juliet, Lady Macbeth, Beatrice, and Hero—through an interactive session connecting critical writing with rehearsal-room practice. Gain fresh strategies for engaging students with themes of gender, relationships, and power in Shakespeare’s works. […]
The Earl and Countess of Derby Invite the English-Speaking Union toA Magical Holiday Weekend at Knowsley HallPrescot, Merseyside L34 4AG EnglandNovember 20–23, 2025 From $2,500 pp double / $3,400 pp single in an Executive SuiteUpgrades to Deluxe and Royal Suite/Lord Derby’s Suite available Step into the enchantment of the holiday season with an exclusive invitation […]
Awards will be presented to the winning students of the 16th Annual Dr. Howard F. Beckley Writing Competition. This year's prompt is Allegory in Art Beyond Literature. Guests will hear the students read their award-winning entries.Refreshments will be provided. The event is free of charge as a gift to Denver Branch members.
From its humble beginnings in 1947, the wife of a Marine Reserve Major wanted todonate dolls to a charity that would distribute the toys to children in need. Sheconvinced her husband to create one. He looked to fellow Marine reservists to get thejob done. The project was a huge success and was officially adopted by the […]
We would like to invite you to an evening of discussion with David Freeman, Director of Publications and Editor of "Finest Hour" at the International Churchill Society, who will discuss "Churchill and The Middle East." Through the desperate twists and turns of the First World War, Britain made various commitments, especially with regard to the Middle […]
As the calendar turns to 2026, The English-Speaking Union of the United States begins a year-long celebration of 250 years of American independence. Throughout the year, ESU will feature several Happy Hours that give us an opportunity to pause and reflect on this historic milestone. The American Revolution was a war unlike any other—one of […]
