NOTE: Location is currently tentative. Check back soon for correct location.
Scholars will present talks on The Wise Woman of Hoxton, a vibrant, early 17th-century English city comedy by playwright Thomas Heywood that centers on a shrewd, cunning title character who operates in the shady, festive outskirts of London. This event complements Lord Denney’s Players' production of the play, which will be performed the same weekend.
Written around 1604, the play follows the exploits of a slippery con artist and fortune teller who routinely outsmarts both gullible citizens and rakish gentlemen. Through clever use of disguises and theatrical trickery, the eponymous "wise woman" navigates the complexities of class conflict and marital deception to expose the wrongdoings of the young male leads. Its significance lies in its vivid, gritty portrayal of low-level early modern London life, serving as a celebrated example of domestic comedy that frequently draws comparisons to the works of Ben Jonson.
More information, including specific presentations and speaker bios, coming soon.
This event is free, open to the public and welcoming to everyone.
Co-sponsored by Lord Denney's Players, the Department of English, the Center for Medieval and Renaissance Studies and the Humanities Institute.
The Humanities Institute and its related centers host a wide range of events, from intense discussions of works in progress to cutting-edge presentations from world-known scholars, artists, activists and everything in between.
We value in-person engagement at our events as we strive to amplify the energy in the room. To submit an accommodation request, please send your request to Cody Childs, childs.97@osu.edu.