Osher Online   

Instructor: Taylor Ackley

We will trace the history of country and American roots music through the stories and artistic developments of influential performers including the Carter Family, Bill Monroe, Hank Williams, Dolly Parton and more.

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Instructor: Christine Maasdam

The public often sees the art world as the domain of wealth, trendsetters and high rollers, yet deception lurks behind the façade. We will uncover riveting stories of criminal art activity, gallery closings and master forgeries.

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Instructor: Bernard Epps

We will examine royal succession through acclaimed British films that explore power not as ceremony but as a moral and political crisis. We will trace the monarchy’s evolution from personal rule to institutional authority.

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Instructor: John White

We will explore how the Founding Fathers left the office for future presidents to define, creating conditions for a dramatic expansion of executive power. We will examine how the presidency has come to dominate the three branches of government and how the rise of the administrative state has reshaped the balance envisioned by the framers.

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Instructor: William Beezley

We will explore Mexico City as a cultural and historical crossroads shaped by centuries of continuity and change. We will trace the legacies of indigenous civilizations, transformations of colonial rule, struggles for independence and the emergence of modern democratic politics.

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Instructor: Leander Kahney

We will trace Apple’s 50-year history and its massive impact on personal computing, design, product culture, platforms and ecosystems, and daily life. We will learn how Apple reshaped not just technology, but how people live, work and communicate.

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Instructor: Nigel Tate

We will step inside the fascinating world of kit homes and explore their history and cultural impact, especially during their peak 1905-1945. We will dig into the industry’s rise and decline, their industrial development and their connections to race and gender in the early 20th century.

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Instructor: Mike Agron

We will continue our journey into how music becomes the emotional engine of film, shaping story, character and unforgettable moments. We will explore how instrumental scores and songs with lyrics work together to drive narrative, define identity and capture cultural shifts.

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Instructor: Angel Cervantes

We will explore the science and methodology of genetic genealogy through the lens of first contact between European and indigenous peoples. We will consider the ethical and political implications of DNA testing and the limits of what genetic evidence can, and cannot, reveal about race and belonging.

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Instructor: Eric Simon

We will explore the scientific study of life, emphasizing real-world applications and the societal, social, ethical and legal consequences of biological advances. Designed for non-scientists, the course will encourage discussion and reflection on topics at the leading edge of scientific discovery.

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Instructor: Nigel Tate

We will step inside the fascinating world of kit homes and explore their history and cultural impact, especially during their peak 1905-1945. We will dig into the industry’s rise and decline, their industrial development and their connections to race and gender in the early 20th century.

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Instructor: Jonathan Duncan

People throughout time and across cultures have looked to the mountains as powerful symbols. We will explore the beliefs, traditions and mythologies that have been inspired by the world’s mountains through richly illustrated lectures, short readings and open discussion.

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Instructor: Kate Davis

We will examine new religious movements, popularly known as cults, in the United States during the 18th and 19th centuries. We will analyze their history, practices and beliefs in order to better understand them and deconstruct misconceptions.

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Instructor: Ladrica Menson-Furr

We will read, watch and examine the first five plays in August Wilson’s “American Cycle,” a 10-play series representing each decade of African American culture in the 20th century. We will explore Wilson’s life and influences, and trace his powerful interpretation and celebration of African American culture.

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Instructor: Lauren Weingarden

We will journey into the vibrant world of early 20th-century art and witness the birth of abstraction. We will explore the aesthetic goals and the social and cultural currents that influenced Fauvism, Cubism, Surrealism and more.

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Instructor: Arthur Benedict

We will cut through the haze of a decade wrapped in myth and misunderstanding by turning to something powerful and concrete: speeches of the era. We will listen to the voices that moved a nation and shaped history, and discover what they still have to teach us today.

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Instructor: Emanuel Abramovits

We will explore how classical musicians, and Broadway and Hollywood composers, followed parallel paths in creating sounds that reflect the U.S. and its people. Featured composers include Aaron Copland, George Gershwin, Florence Price, and more.

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Instructor: Eddy Friedfeld

We will analyze significant periods and players of the 20th and 21st centuries against their historic context and legacy, using humor as the platform. We will discuss how comedy was shaped by and responsive to U.S. society, and how comedians influenced and shaped everyday life.

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Instructor: Lauren Andersen

We will trace the evolution of the courts from their English roots to formal establishment, explore how the U.S. Supreme Court derives its authority and examine the Court’s evolution and current role.

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Instructor: Scott Jones

We will track the evolution of trade from an executive’s perspective. From the sunken treasures of Bronze Age merchant ships to today’s high-tech intermodal systems, we will explore vessels that have carried the world’s wealth and complex networks that keep our modern shelves stocked.

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Instructor: Dede Petri

We will examine founder George Washington's life and political leadership as well as his work as a farmer, entrepreneur and architect. We will also review the groundbreaking work of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association, which has owned and managed Mount Vernon since 1858.

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Instructor: Eleanor Schrader

Often overlooked, 20th-century women designers profoundly shaped the way we perceive, experience and enjoy our built environments, interiors and decorative objects. We will explore the work, influence and social and political context of important women designers and architects.

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Instructor: Eileen Goddard

We will explore Hindu traditions, emphasizing the importance of ritual, knowledge and devotion across Hindu traditions from classical to contemporary times. We will introduce Hinduism’s South Asian roots, consider early and classical expressions of Hindu thought and religious life and see sacred space and places.

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Instructor: Emanuel Abramovits

We will explore book musicals, concept musicals and the arrival of European mega-productions late in the 20th century. We will profile some of the theater world's leading composers, lyricists, writers, choreographers, directors and performers in unforgettable shows including Oklahoma!, My Fair Lady, Show Boat, Guys and Dolls, Hair, Cabaret, Rent, Wicked, Hamilton and more.

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Instructor: Erin Holland

We will explore 100 years of American history through objects often taken for granted in everyday life: signs. We will examine how signs have evolved due to trends in commerce and technology and take a virtual visit to the American Sign Museum’s neon shop to see how a neon sign is made.

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