Apr 232024
 
William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare’s birthday may be today! Experts believe he was born in Stratford-on-Avon, England, in 1564, and died in Stratford-on-Avon, England, on April 23, 1616. He is one of the most famous poets and playwrights. His works are among the most quoted in the world. He wrote almost forty plays and over 150 sonnets. Famous works include Romeo and Juliet and Macbeth. Children can read many of his works at: Project Gutenberg.

Apr 232024
 

Modern Replica of Victorian Zoetrope
Courtesy of Andrew Dunn

Zoetrope was patented by William Lincoln in 1867. He received Patent Number 64,117. A zoetrope produces the illusion of a moving picture by creating two cylinders, one inside the other. The outer cylinder contains paintings. The inner cylinder has slits in its side. When the inner cylinder turns, observers see the images on the outer cylinder move. Quite popular in the 1880’s, zoetropes have found new homes in long subway station platforms. Children could see an amazing Pixar video of a zoetrope at: Zoetrope.

Apr 232024
 
File:Raphael - Saint George Fighting the Dragon.jpg

Saint George Fighting the Dragon
by Raphael

Saint George Feast Day remembers the death of the English martyr Saint George in the year 303. He killed the famous dragon that required daily sacrifice. The story of St. George and the Dragon has been written by several different authors. One excellent version is Saint George and the Dragon, written by Margaret Hodges and illustrated by Trina Schart Hyman. The book received the 1985 Caldecott Medal.