Past Activities

Escape Winter with Lunch in Greektown on February 18

William Phillips, Program Chair

Our first program of 2006 will be our discussion of Mansfield Park on February 18. Unfortunately, our own Jane Davis will not be able to lead the discussion as scheduled although we hope she'll be able to join us and add her insights. Fortunately, we've been able to secure a local academic celebrity for the occasion. Professor. Caryn Chaden of DePaul University will lead the discussion. Caryn is Associate Professor of English and Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies in the College of Liberal Arts at DePaul University. Last October, she was one of the panelists for the One Book, One Chicago discussion of Pride and Prejudice entitled "Nearly Two Hundred Years Old and Not a Wrinkle in Sight: A Closer Look at Austen's Novel." On that occasion, Caryn helped celebrate Austen as one of the creators of the modern English novel and provided insights into her continuing relevance. I, for one, really look forward to having her help us sort out our complex responses to this novel.

Just when you think the winter blahs have won, get the blood flowing again with this terrific combination: a great Greek buffet lunch beginning at noon at the Parthenon (314 South Halsted Street in Chicago ) and a lively discussion of Mansfield Park. By the way, the Parthenon offers complimentary valet parking and is easily accessible from Union Station and the Ogilvy Transportation Center as well as the CTA, the number 8 Halsted or 26 Jackson busses stop within half a block.