The New York Browning Society was founded in 1907 to study the poetry, life, and times of Robert Browning (1812-1889), and of his wife, Elizabeth Barrett Browning(1806-1861).
Our programs reflect the extraordinary diversity of their interests and restless intellects and also encompass most of Victorian literature and culture, for the Brownings knew practically everyone in that extraordinary era. The Society also founded The Browning Institute, which saved the poets’ Florentine home, Casa Guidi, from commercial development.
We have welcomed visitors to our meetings at the National Arts Club, which are held at 1:00 p.m. on the second Wednesday of October through May. Considering current events we will be now participating on Zoom. Programs last about 45 minutes, and are followed by a question and answer session with the speaker and refreshments. The only requirement for membership is your interest in the poets; we ask no special knowledge or expertise.
Our May gathering is the Society’s annual meeting and lunch to commemorate the birth of Robert Browning on May 7, 1812. In addition to programs by distinguished speakers, we present the awards for our annual citywide high school poetry contest; the winners are our guests, and read their work for us. Our ongoing collaboration with nearby Gramercy Arts High School, Clinton High School, and Xavier High School, encourages interested students to attend and participate in our meetings.
Venue
Our Annual May Celebration – A Browning Round Table Discussion + Performances!
Date Wednesday, May 12, 2021 Time 1:00– 2:00PM Roundtable Discussion/Performances by Laura Clarke For our final meeting of the year, we welcome members and guests to join us for a round table discussion on the legacy of the Brownings and the future of Browning studies. Participants are encouraged to lead a short discussion on any […]
Bob Griffiths Presents “Why Browning?: A Poet of Questions and Ambiguities”
Date Wednesday, April 14, 2021 Time 1:00– 2:00PM Bob Griffiths: “Why Browning?: A Poet of Questions and Ambiguities” by Laura Clarke We hope that you will be able to join us on April 14th for Bob Griffiths’ talk, “Why Browning?: A Poet of Questions and Ambiguities.” In this world of 24-hour connectedness, with literally half […]
James Kepple Presents “Robert Browning, Ezra Pound and the Modernists.”
Date Wednesday, March17, 2021 Time 1:00– 2:00PM “Robert Browning, Ezra Pound and the Modernists.” by Laura Clarke We hope that you will be able to join us for James Kepple’s talk, “Robert Browning, Ezra Pound and the Modernists.” From our President: St. Patrick’s Day calls forth a Lecture of Red Hair! A Testament to both […]