OSHER 352 - The History and the Literature: The Summer Before the War

Historical novels tell interesting stories about a time and place and the people living there. The authors of these novels must do extensive research so that their writing accurately reflects the history of the period. Using The Summer Before the War by Helen, by Helen Simonson as the launching point, this class will offer a one-hour look at the lead up to Britain's entry into World War I to provide the historical context for the novel. We will then spend an hour discussing the novel as a piece of contemporary literature. Readers and history buffs welcome! Participants should read The Summer Before the War prior to class.