Malia wrote:Raphael, there aren't *any* letters on display at Keats House (at least not that I saw). They had been on display before the renovation, but are now considered too fragile to display. I suppose now they are only available to scholars (people working on their PhD etc.) to view via private appointment.
That was something of a bummer about Keats House--there were *few* relics on display. It was a minimalist display. That said, the displays are tastefully done, and visiting the house would be a moving experience for any Keatsian. However, the Chester Room--which used to be filled with Keats's letters--is quite an empty place now.
I remember you saying the letters were removed- but I didn't know
all of them...
Even if they are incased in glass are they still too fragile to display? Of course, their preservation is of more importance then me being able to them. I don't see why phd students need to see the letters- seeing them in his hand is something for the heart- it won't help them expound their theories.
How were the letters displayed beforehand in the house? If they are encased in glass in Harvard Library and not in any danger of being damaged then they should be in Keats House that way! I just feel that if the letters are ok to be displayed his house is where they should be.
And who actually
"owns" the letters now?
Did they have his locks of hair in Keats House?