Frederick Douglass was one of America’s most influential anti-slavery activists, and in 1846 he traveled to England to advance the cause. On Wednesday, Feb. 15, Eastern Illinois University students, faculty and community members will discuss Douglass’ reception speech at Finsbury Chapel, as they investigate the questions: “What is slavery? What is freedom?”
This event is among the first in a series of “Big Questions, Great Books” seminars hosted by Eastern’s Pine Honors College. It is also one of EIU’s many events marking African-American Heritage month.
The discussion will take place on the first floor of the Pine Honors College (south end of Pemberton Hall), beginning at 4 p.m. Richard England, dean of the Honors College and professor of philosophy, will outline the main themes of the text, and then lead a discussion. The text excerpt and more information can be found here.
Members of the wider community are welcome to participate. Refreshments will be served.
The “Big Questions, Great Books” series, which began with a discussion of Plato, will continue through the semester, with discussions of texts by Cardinal Newman, Mary Wollstonecraft and Charles Darwin.
The Pine Honors College at Eastern Illinois University provides strong students with opportunities to achieve academic excellence, to serve their community and to grow as leaders and scholars.
For information, contact England at rengland@eiu.edu; 217-581-2017.
Booth House
Eastern Illinois University
600 Lincoln Ave.
Charleston, IL 61920
217-581-7400
jdreinhart@eiu.edu