Blake and the American Dream

What does the radical poetry and art of William Blake say about the promises and failures of the American Dream? Join art historian and political columnist, Stephen F. Eisenman, and Blake scholar, Jason Whittaker, for a provocative exploration of Blake’s revolutionary vision, its surprising relevance to American ideals of freedom, and its actual practices of power. Drawing on Blake’s fierce critiques of empire, inequality, and spiritual decay, this illustrated lecture and discussion uncover how the artist and poet’s work resonates with today’s struggles over citizenship, immigration, race, and gender. This will be a fascinating conversation at the crossroads of art, politics, dreams, and nightmares, challenging us to reimagine what a new American Dream could mean today.

Join acclaimed food writer Fiona Dunlop and scholar Daniel L. Newman for a sensory journey through the rich culinary heritage of al-Andalus. Dunlop’s Andaluz explores the lasting influence of Moorish cuisine in southern Spain, featuring ingredients like saffron and almonds rooted in Arab and Berber traditions. Newman’s translation of The Exile’s Cookbook offers rare insight into medieval food culture across al-Andalus and North Africa. Together, they discuss the historical and modern significance of these dishes, revealing how centuries of cultural exchange continue to shape the region’s vibrant flavours. A feast of stories, history, and taste.

Interested in a career in publishing? Join Bloomsbury as they invite Harper North and Wonderful for an insightful session on how to break into the industry. This event offers a unique opportunity to hear from professionals at top publishing houses and a recruitment expert. Gain insights into the diverse career paths within publishing, from editorial to marketing, and discover what employers are looking for in candidates. With expert advice, industry tips, and Q&A sessions, this is the perfect chance to learn how to kick-start your publishing career.

What happens when feminism excludes the very women it claims to liberate? In this powerful conversation, Minna Salami (Can Feminism Be African?) and Shahed Ezaydi (The Othered Woman) explore the erasures, assumptions, and possibilities at the heart of global feminist discourse.   Drawing on African political philosophy, lived experience, and intersectional critique, they unpack how feminism can become a tool of dominance — and how it might be reimagined through radically inclusive lenses. From the politics of selfhood to the violence of white feminism, this is an urgent dialogue about power, plurality, and the futures feminism must confront.

To mark Sandala’s publication of the late Dr. Thomas Cleary’s translation of the Qur’an, Shaykh Hamza Yusuf, President of Zaytuna College, joins us to reflect on Cleary’s brilliant rendering of God’s Final Testament. Cleary’s translation – remarkable for its clarity and precision – presents the Qur’an as a living text, inviting both Muslim and non-Muslim readers into its ethical and contemplative dimensions. Shaykh Hamza will explore how this faithful rendition of the Qur’an holds true to its greatest purpose: to soak the soul in its recital and timeless message. Joining Shaykh Hamza Yusuf in conversation are Dr Aisha Subhani, Vice President of Zaytuna College, and Dr Asad Tarsin, as they consider the power of translation, the significance of this work, and the enduring relevance of the Qur’an’s guidance in our time.

250 years since her birth, step into the world of one of English literature’s most beloved authors, Jane Austen. Her wit, social critique, and unforgettable characters have captivated readers for over two centuries, but who was the woman behind Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, and Emma? Join Caroline Sanderson, Helena Kelly, and Lizzie Dunford as they explore Austen’s life, legacy, and literary brilliance. From her sharp observations of class and gender to the personal experiences that shaped her novels, this event offers fresh insight into Austen’s world. Discover how her quiet defiance and enduring relevance continue to inspire, and gain a deeper understanding of the woman who redefined the novel and remains a literary legend.

Join historians, Iain Macgregor and Sinclair McKay, for an insightful discussion on the aftermath of World War Two, and how its impact still governs global affairs today.Drawing on decades of research, they explore the enduring legacies of the Second World War and how its outcomes continue to shape international politics, diplomacy, and conflicts.From shifting alliances to the rise of new powers, this event offers a compelling analysis of the war’s long shadow on global affairs. Ideal for history enthusiasts and those interested in understanding the complex forces shaping the modern world.

More than a decade of war has reshaped Syria and the wider region. With Bashar al-Assad no longer in power and a fragile transitional government now in place under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, the country stands at a historic turning point. This panel brings together leading experts to explore what the future holds for Syria: from rebuilding institutions and seeking justice to managing sectarian tensions, regional influence, and refugee return. As Syria re-emerges on the international stage, what will it take to move from survival to stability — and can a lasting peace ever be built on the ruins of the past?

In July 1995, over 8,000 Bosniak Muslim men and boys were murdered in Srebrenica — the worst atrocity on European soil since the Second World War. This event explores how genocide unfolded in the heart of Europe, the silence that enabled it, and the urgent need to remember. Through testimony, history, and reflection, we examine the legacy of Srebrenica: from international failure and justice efforts to rising nationalism and denial today.  As anti-Muslim rhetoric resurfaces across Europe, remembering Srebrenica is not just about the past. We explore what allowed this to happen, if it could happen again, and what remembrance demands of us now.

With war in the Middle East, Donald Trump’s return to the White House, and a new Labour government in the UK, 2025 has brought dramatic political shifts. These come alongside rising climate urgency, widening global inequality, and disruptive advances in AI and biotechnology. In this timely talk, Professor Paul Rogers, Emeritus Professor of Peace Studies, explores the key trends shaping our world. Drawing on decades of expertise in international security, he considers the challenges and opportunities that may define the second half of this turbulent decade — and asks whether a more peaceful, sustainable future is still within reach.