The first of the six talks being live streamed from the Green Howards Museum will take place tomorrow.
The subject is Herbert Read, who served with the Yorkshire Regiment during the First World War, and who is commemorated in Poet’s Corner in Westminster Abbey.
The talk examines why this literary talent, knight of the realm, artist, critic and writer is so often overlooked, in favour of the likes of Owen, Sassoon and Brooke.
The museum’s Carl Watts, who is giving the talk, wonders if it is perhaps because this intriguing Yorkshireman was also an anarchist.
“Read was a dedicated soldier, whose affection and admiration for his men shines through in his prose and poetry, who captured moments of warfare in brutally modern sketches, but one who later questioned everything, and challenged the establishment,” said Carl.
“In the talk, I’ll be exploring the military and cultural life and work of this extraordinary man. Here at the museum, we have a substantial Herbert Read archive, some of which will be included in the Museum Talk.”
The talks series run through until March.
It includes a dip into the museum’s collection of personal papers, an exploration of its current special exhibition, a profile of a local soldier who played a part in shaping the Middle East, a wander round Richmond, spotting the clues to its military heritage, and a chance to experience the various sounds of conflict.
“We’ve really missed welcoming people to our Museum Talks, which have all had to be postponed this year due to Covid-19,”says The Green Howards Museum’s communications manager, Fiona Hall.
““It’s a hugely positive thing to be coming out of this latest lockdown with a live streamed talks series which has something for everyone, and which should keep people entertained over the winter months ahead.
“With these events you can join in regardless of where you live, have an evening’s entertainment, and support the museum from the comfort of home. It’s really easy to book tickets and watch the talk.
“Once it’s over, a recording is available to ticket holders for seven days to go back and enjoy, or watch if you couldn’t make it to the original live event.”
See the full programme and book tickets here.
