PRESENTATIONS
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Discover History Through Art
From Tragedy to the Sublime, Reality to Impressionism
The Wreck of the Medusa
The subject of this talk will be the most famous sea disaster of the 19th century – the sinking of the French frigate Medusa. The terrible suffering, resort to cannibalism and nearly 140 deaths on a raft left to drift after an incompetent captain ran his ship aground off the coast of West Africa ultimately contributed to the overthrow of the Bourbon monarchy and inspired Théodore Géricault to paint his masterpiece, which still hangs in the Louvre Museum, ensuring that the tragedy will not be forgotten. FEE: Free for Patrons SCHEDULE: Thursday, January 23 from 10:00 to 11:00 AM FORMAT: This is an online event. A link will be emailed to participants one day before the event. PRESENTER Frank Nicholson has a PhD in history from the University of Toronto and has been active in later life learning since retiring ten years ago. He’s delivered two dozen history courses, the most recent one being Leading Lights of 19th-Century France, for the University of the Third Age in Cambridge, England, for which this lecture was prepared.
Impressionism Part I
Dive into the world of Impressionism, the radical art movement that forever changed the way we see and interpret the world. Across two engaging three-week sessions, explore how painters like Monet, Degas, Renoir, and Morisot defied tradition, capturing fleeting moments and the essence of modern life with shimmering light and bold brushstrokes. Trace the origins of this groundbreaking style, its challenges to the art establishment, and its profound influence on both culture and future generations of artists. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply curious, this journey will deepen your appreciation for one of history’s most beloved artistic revolutions. FEE: Free for Patrons SCHEDULE: 3 Mondays, January 13 to 27 from 10:00 to 11:00 AM FORMAT: This is an online event. A link will be emailed to participants one day before the event. PRESENTER Susan Moffatt has degrees from The University of Winnipeg and The School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, England. Over the years, she has taught a creative span of art history courses, that include The Art Survey through African, Contemporary, both Dutch and Italian Renaissance, Art Between the Wars, Manitoba and Canadian Art, Prehistoric Art, Impressionism, Art Nouveau/Art Deco, and others. Her other interests include heritage buildings. She is a member of the Friends of Dalnavert Board and has been associated with Dalnavert since its inception as a museum in 1974. She has also worked for the University of Manitoba (School of Art), the Winnipeg Art Gallery, and the Manitoba Museum.
Impressionism Part II
Continue your journey into Impressionism in this second three-week session. Dive into the world of Impressionism, the radical art movement that forever changed the way we see and interpret the world. Across two engaging three-week sessions, explore how painters like Monet, Degas, Renoir, and Morisot defied tradition, capturing fleeting moments and the essence of modern life with shimmering light and bold brushstrokes. Trace the origins of this groundbreaking style, its challenges to the art establishment, and its profound influence on both culture and future generations of artists. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply curious, this journey will deepen your appreciation for one of history’s most beloved artistic revolutions. FEE: Free for Patrons SCHEDULE: 3 Mondays, February 10 to March 3 from 10:00 to 11:00 AM (no class February 17) FORMAT: This is an online event. A link will be emailed to participants one day before the event. PRESENTER Susan Moffatt has degrees from The University of Winnipeg and The School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, England. Over the years, she has taught a creative span of art history courses, that include The Art Survey through African, Contemporary, both Dutch and Italian Renaissance, Art Between the Wars, Manitoba and Canadian Art, Prehistoric Art, Impressionism, Art Nouveau/Art Deco, and others. Her other interests include heritage buildings. She is a member of the Friends of Dalnavert Board and has been associated with Dalnavert since its inception as a museum in 1974. She has also worked for the University of Manitoba (School of Art), the Winnipeg Art Gallery, and the Manitoba Museum.
An Update on Conflict
A perspective from a Military Historian
Ukraine, Russia and Vladimir Putin
The Russian attack on Ukraine and the Ukrainians’ amazing resistance is one of the most extraordinary events of our lifetime. Its impact will resonate throughout the world for decades to come. For over a decade Barry has been studying Russian and Ukrainian history, travelling extensively in both countries. He is in daily contact with Ukrainian friends and follows the war closely, on a political and military level. This presentation shows wartime life in the Ukrainian City of Odessa and then moves on to a trip to Moscow to view the 70th anniversary parade of Russia’s winning of the Great Patriotic War (WWII). Barry will explain the character and history of the Russian people which has led to this criminal war, and discuss the personality of Vladimir Putin, a leader who is the ultimate symbol of Russia’s inability to deal with its turbulent past. FEE: Free for Patrons SCHEDULE: Thursday, January 30 from 2:00 to 3:30 PM FORMAT: This is an online event. A link will be emailed to participants one day before the event. PRESENTER Barry Lane, born in Regina, Saskatchewan, studied history at the Royal Military College of Canada and served as a UN Captain in Egypt. He has lived in Quebec City since 1976, speaks English and French fluently, and is conversant in Russian and Italian. Co-founder of Mendel Tours in 1984, Barry organized academic travel for major U.S. universities and museums. Specializing in British colonial and maritime history, he has lectured widely on rail trips across Canada and cruises along the St. Lawrence, the Great Lakes, and the Caribbean. In 1991, Barry received the Antoine de Saint-Exupéry prize for his children’s book Ce jour-là en Nouvelle-France. Now retired, he authored Canadian Pacific and the Golden Age of Travel, exploring the history of the Canadian Pacific Railway. He continues to lecture on cruises and trains.
Multi Week History Courses
Dive deep into The Justinian Empire and Medieval Iceland
Emperor Justinian: Byzantine Visionary
Step into the world of Emperor Justinian I, one of history’s most ambitious and transformative rulers. Over the course of this series, we’ll explore Justinian’s reign from 527 to 565 CE, a period of remarkable achievements and sweeping reforms. Learn about his monumental legal reforms, most notably the Justinianic Code, which laid the foundations for modern law in many countries. Discover his efforts to restore the Roman Empire, his architectural triumphs like the Hagia Sophia, and his turbulent reign marked by power struggles and challenges, perhaps none greater than the outbreak of bubonic plague. This series unveils the complexities of a ruler who sought to unite, rebuild, and redefine an empire. FEE: Free for Patrons SCHEDULE: 4 Tuesdays, January 28 to February 18 from 2:00 to 3:00 PM FORMAT: This is an online event. A link will be emailed to participants one day before the event. PRESENTER Dr. Conor Whately, from Brantford, Ontario, has a BA and an MA in Classics, both from McMaster University, as well as a PhD in Classics and Ancient History from the University of Warwick. Whately has published several book chapters, journal articles, and book reviews; and has written two books: Battles and Generals and Exercitus Moesiae. He is currently the sole investigator in a SSHRC research project entitled War and History at the End of Antiquity. Among other things, Whately is writing a textbook on the Roman army and a book on the sensory experience of battle in antiquity, which is aimed at a general audience. Finally, Whately is co-editing a volume on Ancient Military Manuals with Dr. James Chlup from the University of Manitoba.
Medieval Iceland
This course surveys the literature and culture of medieval Iceland, with a focus on Old Norse Mythology and the Sagas of Icelanders. The myths and the sagas provide a window into the worldview of the culture of medieval Iceland, itself part of the larger Viking diaspora. During each session we will learn about a specific literary source and the story or stories it contains. Our primary texts include The Prose Edda, The Poetic Edda, The Saga of the People of Kjalarnes, and Eirik the Red’s Saga. Beyond learning about Iceland’s significant literary heritage, we will also discuss early audiences for these stories and consider the appearance and re-appearance of medieval Icelandic heritage in early-modern, modern, and popular cultures, in Iceland and beyond. FEE: Free for Patrons SCHEDULE: 4 Tuesdays, March 4 to 25 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM FORMAT: This is an online event. A link will be emailed to participants one day before the event. PRESENTER: Professor Andrew McGillivray, from Winnipeg, Manitoba, holds a PhD in Icelandic Literature and Contemporary Cultural Studies from the University of Iceland. He is currently an Associate Professor and Chair in Rhetoric & Communications at the University of Winnipeg. McGillivray has published a book about Old Norse Mythology and several articles about the Sagas of Icelanders, Icelandic literature and art, and the Icelandic heritage in North America.
The Tzars: Power, Glory, and Legacy
Discover the rulers who shaped Russia’s destiny, from the grandeur of the Romanov dynasty to the audacious reign of its most remarkable Empress.
The Romanovs: Three Centuries of Power, Glory, and Intrigue
For over 300 years, the Romanovs reigned supreme, transforming Russia from a ridiculed outlier into a dominant empire on the world stage. This is the saga of rulers who earned titles like "The Great" and "The Terrible," shaping a legacy of brilliance, ruthlessness, and ambition. Explore how their dynasty laid the foundations of modern Russia and inspired leaders like Putin himself. And in a surprising twist of history, discover how—should the Romanovs ever return—our own King Charles might have a claim to their throne. FEE: Free for Patrons SCHEDULE: Thursday, February 13 from 10:00 to 11:00 AM FORMAT: This is an online event. A link will be emailed to participants one day before the event. PRESENTER Alan Freeland is a passionate historian and educator who brings the past to life through engaging workshops and lectures. After a successful career in IT, he shifted his focus to history and art, inspiring audiences with his dynamic teaching and deep knowledge. At the Farnham branch of the University of the Third Age (u3a), Alan leads workshops for the Art History and World History groups and is a sought-after speaker for Probus groups, London u3a virtual programs, and the London u3a Summer School. One of his specialties is the history of the Romanov dynasty, a topic he explores with passion and precision in his workshops. Alan also has a deep connection to the history of the Silk Roads, a subject he explored extensively during a three-year u3a group he led. His travels along this historic route—from Xi’an, China, to the Turkmenistan border and through Georgia—provide firsthand insights that enrich his teaching. Additionally, he offers Silk Road-themed tours at the Victoria and Albert Museum and the British Museum, sharing the fascinating legacy of this ancient trade network. Whether uncovering the stories of the Romanovs or unraveling the Silk Roads, Alan’s passion for history and talent for teaching leave his audiences inspired and informed.
Catherine the Great: Empress, Visionary, Conqueror
If the sweeping saga of the Romanovs feels daunting, this talk spotlights one towering figure who reshaped history: Catherine the Great. Rising to power in an age when women were rarely allowed on the stage of leadership, Catherine defied expectations to become one of the most remarkable and complex rulers of all time. Her reign from 1762 to 1796 was marked by bold reforms, artistic flourishing, and a relentless drive to expand her empire. It was Catherine who secured southern Ukraine for Russia, laying the groundwork for territorial ambitions that echo to this day. Visionary, cunning, and unapologetically ambitious, Catherine’s story reveals a woman whose legacy transcends her time—and whose life would make even Putin take notice. FEE: Free for Patrons SCHEDULE: Thursday, March 6 from 10:00 to 11:00 AM FORMAT: This is an online event. A link will be emailed to participants one day before the event. PRESENTER Alan Freeland is a passionate historian and educator who brings the past to life through engaging workshops and lectures. After a successful career in IT, he shifted his focus to history and art, inspiring audiences with his dynamic teaching and deep knowledge. At the Farnham branch of the University of the Third Age (u3a), Alan leads workshops for the Art History and World History groups and is a sought-after speaker for Probus groups, London u3a virtual programs, and the London u3a Summer School. One of his specialties is the history of the Romanov dynasty, a topic he explores with passion and precision in his workshops. Alan also has a deep connection to the history of the Silk Roads, a subject he explored extensively during a three-year u3a group he led. His travels along this historic route—from Xi’an, China, to the Turkmenistan border and through Georgia—provide firsthand insights that enrich his teaching. Additionally, he offers Silk Road-themed tours at the Victoria and Albert Museum and the British Museum, sharing the fascinating legacy of this ancient trade network. Whether uncovering the stories of the Romanovs or unraveling the Silk Roads, Alan’s passion for history and talent for teaching leave his audiences inspired and informed.
Timeless Journeys: Exploring the America's Ancient Marvels
​Step into history, where the echoes of ancient civilizations come alive in breathtaking destinations that you can still visit today.
Teotihuacan: The City of the Gods
Step back in time to the awe-inspiring ancient city of Teotihuacan, the crown jewel of Mexico’s archaeological wonders and a testament to human ingenuity. From 1 CE to 200 CE, this bustling metropolis rose as the largest ceremonial center in Mesoamerica, its grand pyramids and sprawling avenues drawing people from across the region. A melting pot of cultures, Teotihuacan was home to diverse communities, including the Zapotec, Maya, and Totonac peoples, who lived side by side in a vibrant tapestry of traditions. The city’s wealth and innovation were fueled by obsidian, unearthed in abundance by archaeologists—shimmering black volcanic glass that was crafted into tools, weapons, and intricate adornments, showcasing the artistry and resourcefulness of its inhabitants. But Teotihuacan’s brilliance was not eternal. By the 7th century, the city experienced a mysterious and dramatic collapse, likely tied to devastating droughts triggered by the climate upheavals of 535–536 CE. Its silence remains as haunting as its ruins, leaving behind unanswered questions and a profound sense of wonder. Today, Teotihuacan continues to captivate the world, even as modern developments spark debate over the balance between preservation and tourism. Join us as we explore this enigmatic city and its enduring legacy—a place where the ancient past meets the complexities of the present. FEE: Free for Patrons SCHEDULE: Thursday, March 13 from 10:00 to 11:00 AM FORMAT: This is an online event. A link will be emailed to participants one day before the event. PRESENTER After studying Fine Arts, Maria Chester decided to go deeper and studied Art History becoming a Professor in Pre-Columbian Civilizations. From her first passion, that was Cave Art and Rock Art she developed an interest in Archaeology, and this has served as a frame for her ongoing research. She is multilingual and enjoys travelling. She taught in several South American universities as well as private institutions. Maria has served as the National Subject Adviser on American Archaeology to The Third Age Trust where she became its Chairperson. In 2015, she became a founding member of the IC-International Committee to The Third Age Trust, in the United Kingdom. In May 2016 she was elected Secretary General of AIUTA- International Association of Universities of the Third Age. She also tutors regular courses on Art History for BEA-Berwick Educational Association.
Palenque: Lord Pakal and The Red Queen’s Citadel
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking splendor of Palenque, a timeless masterpiece of Mayan artistry that has captivated adventurers, explorers, and archaeologists for centuries. Nestled in the lush jungles of Chiapas, this classical-period sanctuary flourished between 500 CE and 700 CE, reigning as a beacon of culture and power along the Usumacinta River basin. Palenque’s architecture is a symphony of elegance and precision. Its soaring temples, intricate palaces, and ethereal sculpted reliefs—imbued with rich mythological narratives—stand as a testament to the boundless creativity of the Maya civilization. Rising to prominence around 500 CE, the city became a formidable political and cultural hub, with rulers like the legendary Lord Pakal leaving indelible marks of grandeur. Yet, like many ancient cities, Palenque’s vibrant life eventually faded. By the 9th century CE, its temples and palaces fell silent, shrouded in mystery and reclaimed by the dense jungle. Rediscovered in the modern era, the site continues to reveal its secrets, including the enigmatic tomb of the Red Queen, sparking intrigue and wonder. Join us on a journey to Palenque, where art, mythology, and history converge in an extraordinary testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the Maya. Explore a world where every stone tells a story and every shadow whispers of a magnificent past. FEE: Free for Patrons SCHEDULE: Thursday, March 20 from 10:00 to 11:00 AM FORMAT: This is an online event. A link will be emailed to participants one day before the event. PRESENTER After studying Fine Arts, Maria Chester decided to go deeper and studied Art History becoming a Professor in Pre-Columbian Civilizations. From her first passion, that was Cave Art and Rock Art she developed an interest in Archaeology, and this has served as a frame for her ongoing research. She is multilingual and enjoys travelling. She taught in several South American universities as well as private institutions. Maria has served as the National Subject Adviser on American Archaeology to The Third Age Trust where she became its Chairperson. In 2015, she became a founding member of the IC-International Committee to The Third Age Trust, in the United Kingdom. In May 2016 she was elected Secretary General of AIUTA- International Association of Universities of the Third Age. She also tutors regular courses on Art History for BEA-Berwick Educational Association.
Machu Picchu: Hidden Jewel of the Andes
High in the mist-shrouded peaks of the Peruvian Andes, Machu Picchu rises like a dream—a marvel of engineering and artistry built at 2,430 meters above sea level. Constructed under the visionary leadership of Inca Pachacutec, this citadel transcends time, offering a glimpse into the ingenuity and spiritual devotion of the Inca civilization. Perched dramatically on a ridge flanked by sheer precipices, Machu Picchu stretches 530 meters in length and 200 meters in width, encompassing 172 remarkable structures. The citadel is divided into distinct sectors: the agricultural terraces encircle the urban heart, while the towering peak of Wayna Picchu looms as a sacred guardian. Within its stone walls lies a microcosm of Inca life, from the Intiwatana (the Solar Temple) and Acllahuasi (House of the Chosen Women) to kallancas (barracks), baths, aqueducts, and collqas (corn storage). The Incas meticulously divided the site into hanan (upper) and hurin (lower) sectors, with sacred spaces set apart by stone walls. Fertile terraces cascade down the mountainsides, a testament to their agricultural prowess. The fresh, flowing water from fountains—known as pacchas—still runs, connecting past and present with a gentle, eternal rhythm. A masterpiece of harmony between architecture and nature, Machu Picchu continues to captivate the imagination of travelers and historians alike. Join us in uncovering the mysteries of this hidden jewel, where every stone whispers stories of resilience, faith, and a profound connection to the cosmos. FEE: Free for Patrons SCHEDULE: Thursday, March 27 from 10:00 to 11:00 AM FORMAT: This is an online event. A link will be emailed to participants one day before the event. PRESENTER After studying Fine Arts, Maria Chester decided to go deeper and studied Art History becoming a Professor in Pre-Columbian Civilizations. From her first passion, that was Cave Art and Rock Art she developed an interest in Archaeology, and this has served as a frame for her ongoing research. She is multilingual and enjoys travelling. She taught in several South American universities as well as private institutions. Maria has served as the National Subject Adviser on American Archaeology to The Third Age Trust where she became its Chairperson. In 2015, she became a founding member of the IC-International Committee to The Third Age Trust, in the United Kingdom. In May 2016 she was elected Secretary General of AIUTA- International Association of Universities of the Third Age. She also tutors regular courses on Art History for BEA-Berwick Educational Association.
