Shakespeare, Twain and Defoe in One Day. Unreal!

Russell Grant, a practicing actor (not a waiter) and Blue Badge guide, gave a rousing lecture on the history of British theatre. Here, in this morning session, he points out one of the few existing portraits of William Shakespeare. The image projected on the left side of the screen may possibly be Shakespeare in his youth. When seen side by side, there are indeed clear similarities. Known not only for his popular plays, but according to Russell, Shakespeare is also credited with coining thousands of new words in the English language, many of which are still in use today. That's unreal! (Shakespeare came up with that one, too!)

In the afternoon, Ms. Reber leads a class discussion on the week's writing assignment, with Brian and Nick listening attentively to Ashley's response.

Ashley gives her reaction to one of Mark Twain's short pieces. Authors Twain and Daniel Defoe both wrote stories and novels about the English people around the late 19th century and the early 1700s, respectively, and their writings were used as the basis for an assignment exploring the travel writing genre. Note, too, Ashley's new Pashmina shawl in pale yellow color, the perfect fashion accessory for our graying weather.

Paul reads an excerpt from his journal which compared his experiences in New England with those in (old) England, while Jose appears to be swan-necking (a colorful British term describing the act of reading over someone's shoulder. This unwanted act, which allows one to read the daily newspaper without charge, is often performed while commuting to and from work on the Underground and is generally frowned-upon behavior, and then only if one is actually caught free-loading, that is). Thanks to AIFS staffer Kieran for this valuable insight.

Megan compared her experience while riding on the Tube with earlier perceptions of what she considered ought to be proper social etiquette. Hint: Liberal use of the word "Sorry," will usually diffuse any sticky situation...but run like heck if it doesn't!

Alex tries to find just the right words and is simultaneously shaded from an excess of fluorescent room light, thanks to Ross's enormous hat.