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Making Shakespeare: The First Folio Film

What makes a book priceless?  Is it the exquisite binding?  Is it the sturdy paper? The archival inks? Is it the content?  Does the story convey relatable human truths?  Is it the publisher, the printmaker, the collector?

Suzanne Coley embroidering a page for a Shakespeare Sonnet book.
Making Shakespeare: The First Folio explores how a book printed 400 years ago has survived wars, revolutions, theft, and the changing times.

Video still from Making Shakespeare: The First Folio

Only approximately 750 First Folio have been printed, and these copies have made their way around the world.  Making Shakespeare: The First Folio showcases several folios with notable owners including one examined by King Charles III that was owned and cherished by King Charles I and includes the markings he made.  

Video still from Making Shakespeare: The First Folio

The film aisles uncovers the mystery owner of a folio whose owner had remained anonymous for four centuries and was revealed to be the celebrated English poet John Milton.

Great Performances - Making Shakespeare: The First Folio on view online until December 15, 2023.  





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