Samuel Johnson's

Rasselas

Dear Friend and Fellow-Reader:
We are soon returning from our sojourn in South Carolina, and it is already time to plan the next installment in the Boethius Book Series, which will take place on Thursday March 23, 2017. The evening will commence promptly with drinks and hors d’oeuvres served at 5:00, at my house: 2719 Highcrest Road, Rockford. The contribution is, as always, $15 per person, $25 per couple.

March’s selection will be Rasselas by Samuel Johnson. Sometimes described as a “novella,” Rasselas is s short fantastic narrative of an adventurous journey undertaken by the Prince of Abyssinia with his sister, philosophical tutor, and attendants. Superficially, it is one of those Enlightenment stories in which Western readers are forced to see their own world through the wiser eyes of Orientals or savages. Johnson is actually doing the opposite—teaching Christians to learn their moral duties that have been stripped of overt Christian language and trappings.

Since Rasselas will also be discussed at the Summer Symposium (July 11-15), this is an opportunity to begin the reading for that program.

Please try to arrive on time, if it is possible. Nonetheless, because we know that many of you have busy schedules, we welcome late arrivals. The discussion will begin at 5:45 sharp with a brief introduction followed by a fairly free-wheeling conversation. We shall break up no later than 7:15.

Please let us know in advance if you are coming this November, but, because of the informal nature of the programs, and my wife’s graciousness, we are happy to accommodate walk-ins. Call me at (815) 621-5700 (a voice mail message is adequate if I miss your call) or email me at Thomas@Fleming.Foundation to reserve a seat.

We look forward to seeing you on March 23rd.

Faithfully yours,

Thomas J. Fleming

PS. Gold subscribers to www.Fleming.Foundation can listen to recordings of the Boethius Book Series.