Exploring Oxford - Monday Edition!

Monday began with a wonderful tour of The Bodleian Library. Our tour guide started us off in The Divinity School of the library, where the infirmary scenes from the Harry Potter films were shot. The Divinity School was historically used for the oral examinations of degree candidates. The ceiling was the most noteworthy aspect of this room, decorated with the initials from those who helped build the room, the King's crest, and various animals. 

We next were taken through the Convocation House (the "Parliament House" of the 17th century), Duke Humfrey's Library, and the Chancellor's Court. An interesting story from our tour guide: the books on the lower level shelves in the Duke Humfrey's Library used to be chained to the desks that sat below the shelves. Good thing at least some of the books from the library can be borrowed nowadays. 

The Tower of the Five Orders - the entrance of the library, displays five classical orders of architecture (Tuscan, Doric, Ionic, Corinthian, and Composite).

A statue of William Herbert, Chancellor of the University and Bodleian benefactor. 

The Radcliffe Camera (contains reading rooms). 

A few of us went to the top of the Church of St. Mary the Virgin. The views were gorgeous!

In the afternoon it was time to discuss The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Of course, these discussions had to be held at the famous The Eagle and Child pub, where C. S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien (among others) would meet to discuss their writings. This famous group of authors was called the Inklings.  

We had a great time sharing our thoughts on The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Some topics we discussed included the roles of women in the novel, Christian undertones, and the characterizations of the animal characters. Overall, we had an amazing day and we cannot wait for more adventures!  

My discussion group! 

Cheers!
Brooke