Lawrence of Arabia: The Movie, the Man, the Enigma, with Richard Matturro

A brilliant Oxford scholar, a skilled archaeologist, a talented writer, and a master of guerilla warfare, T. E. Lawrence was also a tormented soul who eventually refused all honors, shunned his celebrity, and tried to lose himself in the lowest ranks of the military under an assumed name. The first four classes will feature segments from the 1962 film Lawrence of Arabia, starring Peter O’Toole, and the last two classes, the 1992 film, A Dangerous Man: Lawrence After Arabia, starring Ralph Fiennes. Before and after each screening we will discuss Lawrence’s complicated life and his efforts to prevent the intractable Middle East conflicts that exist to this day.

Suggested Reading: Only if desired: Seven Pillars of Wisdom, 1926, T. E. Lawrence’s account of his participation in the Arab revolt during World War I.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI)presents thought-provoking programs in literature, science, politics, history, the arts, and more designed specifically for adults over 50. Learn more at berkshireolli.wildapricot.org.