Monuments have been constructed throughout history—but why, how, and to what end? Join acclaimed Penn faculty and invited special guests of our acclaimed lecture series as they examine the definition of a monument, what monuments of the past mean to the world today, whether they hold deeper or changed significance than when they were first created, if their purposes have shifted over time, and many more questions. Lecture topics range from ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Rome, to contemporary themes and monuments.

The annual “Greats Lectures” series offers visitors opportunities dig into the past through vivid details and incredible insights into humanity over time and space. While the Museum has limited capacity due to public health concerns, the Great Monuments series will be delivered virtually: enjoy these lectures from the comfort of your own home. Lectures are $5 each and held at 6 p.m.

To register, visit www.penn.museum/events/adult-programs/great-lecture-series. If you have registered for the lecture(s), you will receive an email on the Monday before the lecture with a link and instructions on how to connect. We use the BlueJeans platform, which is comparable to Zoom and one of the most secure platforms available. Attendees do not have to download an application and will even be able to ask the speaker a question, just as if we were still in the Harrison Auditorium.

Upcoming Spring Lectures

February 3: Slave Dwellings, Monuments, and the United Daughters of the Confederacy
March 3: Commemoration and Monument in Medieval India
April 7: The War Memorials of Imperial Rome
May 5: Building Monuments, Monumentalizing Buildings
June 2: Then and Now: Monuments, Memorials and Public Art

—Penn Museum