We know D.C. Get our free newsletter to stay in the know.
26
MONDAY
Though Nietzsche introduces the text: “That for which we find words is something already dead in our hearts,” Harold Bloom, “the pre-eminent literary critic of our time,” has found enough living in his heart to analyze all of William Shakespeare’s plays in the National Book Award-nominated Shakespeare: The Invention of the Human. According to Bloom, not only did Shakespeare invent the English language, he invented the modern concept of human nature. Literati tantalized by Bloom’s elucidation of personality, sexuality, and humor in Shakespeare will be sated by the evening’s stellar performances. New York-based actors Cherry Jones, Janet McTeer, and Peter Francis James will present monologues and scenes reflecting themes from Bloom’s reading. “Shakespeare’s plays…teach us whether we are fools of time, or of love, or of fortune, or of our parents, or of ourselves.” At 8 p.m. at the Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 East Capitol St. SE. $15. (202) 544-7077. (Amanda Fazzone)