The Folger Shakespeare Library, located in Washington, D.C., is one of the most important centers for the study of Shakespeare. It was founded in 1932 by Henry Clay Folger and his wife, Emily Jordan Folger. The library is home to the world's largest collection of Shakespeare's printed works, including 82 First Folios (the first collected edition of Shakespeare's plays, published in 1623), as well as a vast collection of other rare books, manuscripts, and art from the early modern period (1500–1750).
The building itself is designed in a neoclassical style with a beautiful marble exterior, featuring bas-reliefs of scenes from Shakespeare's plays. Inside, the library is both a research center and a cultural venue, offering exhibitions, performances, and educational programs.
While Shakespeare is the centerpiece, the Folger also holds materials related to other Renaissance writers, explorers, and historical figures. Its collections include manuscripts, letters, and early printed books from the 16th and 17th centuries.
The library also hosts a theater, the Folger Theatre, which presents regular performances of Shakespeare’s plays and other classic works.
We explored five sections of the library. They are Great Hall; Reading Room; Theater; Shakespeare Exhibition Hall and Rear Book & Manuscript Exhibition
Hall.
Sculptures in the Garden
Outside the library, there is a small garden featuring sculptures inspired by scenes from Shakespeare's works. I think the artist had a brilliant idea, as the sculptures feel incredibly lifelike. Just look at the expressions on the characters' faces!
King Lear, Act 3, scene 2
Julius Caesar, Act 2, Scene 1
Puck Statue
One of the most prominent sculptures is of Puck, a mischievous character from Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream. This bronze statue is located near the entrance, capturing Puck's playful and whimsical nature. It was created by sculptor Brenda Putnam in 1932. Puck is shown seated with a flute, embodying his trickster role.
Bas-Reliefs of Shakespearean Scenes
The exterior of the library features bas-relief sculptures that depict iconic scenes from several of Shakespeare’s plays. These marble reliefs, created by sculptor John Gregory, were part of the original design from 1932 when the library was built. The scenes include famous moments from plays like Hamlet, Macbeth, and The Tempest. Each relief captures critical dramatic moments, emphasizing the themes of Shakespeare’s work.
The Nine Muses
Above the entrance of the library, there are carvings of the Nine Muses, representing the Greek goddesses of inspiration for literature, science, and the arts. These figures symbolize the broad intellectual and artistic mission of the Folger Library, emphasizing its dedication to both scholarship and creativity.
These sculptures complement the neoclassical architecture of the library and give a visual narrative that honors Shakespeare’s contributions to literature and the arts.
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