Left to Right: Balthazar (Justin Badoyen), Bel-imperia (Emma Drennan), Lorenzo (Monroe Byer), and Hieronimo (James Keegan)                       Photo by Paola Nogueras

This semester, I had the chance to assist Villanova’s Theatre Department in its production of The Spanish Tragedy by Thomas Kyd. Written between 1582 and 1592, this Elizabethan tragedy marked the beginning of a new genre in English theatre: the revenge play. After failing to attain legal justice for his murdered son, courtier Hieronimo takes matters into his own hands. Teaming up with the canny and resolute Bel-Imperia, the two set out to seek blood for blood. With its intricate plotting and bold theatricality, Thomas Kyd’s tragedy still speaks to us today with its unflinching look at judicial inequity, legacies of violence, and the seductive nature of vengeance.

We finished our first week of performances, but the show will still be running until April 21. Buy your tickets here while seats are still available!

Photo courtesy of Villanova Theatre

I also invite you to attend The Spanish Tragedy Symposium which will take place April 19-20. The Symposium will include a facilitated discussion about the play and larger pedagogical project, an introduction to the grant-funded web archive, a performance of student-authored Spanish Tragedy spinoffs, and a splendid reception. This event is FREE for all Villanova students, faculty, and staff. Register at this link.

If you want to know what people thought of the play, check out GA Annie’s review here.

Although this play is frequently studied by academic scholars, it is rarely staged because of its considerable theatrical demands, including onstage hangings, multiple plays within plays, and dialogue in several non-English languages. Therefore, a great deal of discussion and effort had to be put into accomplishing this huge undertaking. The production of The Spanish Tragedy was an intense project that required a lot of work and time, but, to me, seeing the play come together was well worth it.

So how did I get involved in this bloody play? My story actually begins at the beginning of the school year, during the Fall 2023 semester. The directors of Villanova’s The Spanish Tragedy offered an interdisciplinary Theatre/English course called “Legacies of Revenge” focused on developing an understanding of the dynamics of vengeance in western culture. In this class, we studied The Spanish Tragedy in its entirety along with other plays and narratives, philosophical texts, and media from films and TV shows exploring the theme of revenge. The professors also gave us the opportunity to participate in some pre-production work: we created production designs for sets and costumes and edited the play’s manuscript for performance. This was an incredibly insightful and fascinating class, and I gained an in-depth understanding of The Spanish Tragedy long before it graced the stage.

Drs. Chelsea Phillips and Alice Dailey, the professors of “Legacies of Revenge” and the directors of The Spanish Tragedy, encouraged everyone in the class to participate in the spring production for course credit. Having greatly enjoyed the class and interested in the chance to help move the play into a physical theater, I enrolled in “Staging the Spanish Tragedy” for the Spring 2024 semester. Out of the small group of students registered for this “course,” I was the only one who did not audition to be a cast member, so Phillips and Dailey invited me to join the Stage Management Team as an Assistant Stage Manager (ASM).

Being an ASM was a huge time commitment. Not only did I have to attend nearly every rehearsal, but I had to arrive half an hour early to set up the room (and later the stage) and stay late to clean up and help fill out paperwork. This drastic change to my normal daily routine was difficult to adjust to, and I had to re-evaluate how I managed my time in order to remain on top of my schoolwork and other responsibilities.

Revenge (Annabella Nordlund)
Photo by Paola Nogueras

However, despite the challenges this role posed, I loved it all the same because it allowed me to witness the development of this play. The directors had a clear vision for The Spanish Tragedy, and the cast and production members worked hard to bring about that vision. Despite how big of a project this production was, everyone involved was super passionate and enthusiastic. They all wanted to be there and see this thing to its completion, and that motivation and dedication rubbed off on me.

My experience with The Spanish Tragedy was an amazing opportunity. Being a part of stage crew in a theatre production was new to me, but I learned so much. I had no idea so much work went on behind the scenes, and I definitely gained a better appreciation for the individuals who help make these shows a reality.

I’ve had so much fun backstage working with the other ASMs, and I am excited for this upcoming week of shows. It’s sad to know that the end of the production is near, especially since this play has been a part of my life all year. I’m grateful for this opportunity all that same and so happy that I was able to participate in the production of such an awesome play.

Rebecca Amrick is a first-year graduate student in the English Department and a Graduate Assistant at Falvey Library.

As Falvey’s Cat in the Stax, Rebecca writes articles covering a broad range of topics, from academics to hobbies to random events. All the while highlighting how Falvey Library can enhance your Villanova experience!

We are officially two weeks away from the last day of classes! I don’t know about you, but I feel like this month has been flying by. Assignments are piling up, finals are looming, and you’re probably anxious for summer break. Make an effort to take some time to yourself this week. Find some way to decompress so that you can finish the semester strong!

Image by Markus Spiske from Unsplash.com

Take care of yourself this weekend, and if you have time next week, try to take care of the Earth. Next Monday, April 22 is Earth Day, the second day of Earth Week, which runs from April 21-April 27 this year. The global nonprofit Earthday.org selected the 2024 theme “Planet vs. Plastics,” informing about the dangers of single-use plastics and undertaking a commitment to ending the use of plastics entirely. Proponents for this cause are demanding a 60% reduction in plastic production by 2040. Kathleen Rogers, President of Earthday.org, explains that “The Planet vs. Plastics campaign is a call to arms, a demand that we act now to end the scourge of plastics and safeguard the health of every living being upon our planet.”

Achieving sustainability is huge focus in efforts to combat climate change. Simply put, sustainability means meeting the needs of the current generation without compromising future generations’ ability to do the same. On an individual level, this can be as simple as changing your habits to reduce your carbon footprint. The biggest things you can do, of course, are recycle and use reusable water bottles and food containers instead of plastic ones. If you want to learn more about sustainable living and the various ways you can make a difference, check out Villanova’s Pathways to Sustainable Living. You can calculate your ecological, carbon, and water footprints and learn ways to reduce your impact.

Looking to get involved in making a difference? Villanova has organized a myriad of events over the next two weeks to celebrate Earth Week. Click here to look at what’s being offered and to sign up!

If you would like to learn more about the importance of protecting the environment and how you can make a difference, check out some of these books and film documentaries available at Falvey:

• Silent Spring by Rachel Carson
• Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life by Barbara Kingsolver
• Sustainable Home: Practical Projects, Tips and Advice For Maintaining a More Eco-Friendly Household by Christine Liu-Perkins
• An (Almost) Zero Waste Life: Learning How to Embrace Less to Live More by Megean Weldon
• Food, Inc. (Documentary)
• Anthropocene: The Human Epoch (Documentary)

Rebecca Amrick is a first-year graduate student in the English Department and a Graduate Assistant at Falvey Library.

Pictured: Emma Drennen as Bel-Imperia pursued by Revenge. Photos by Kimberly Reilly

Revenge. It’s a theme with a long and storied history that continues to dig its gripping hooks into contemporary media. Although the revenge stories of today have certainly been updated to fit the times, they are as old as time–or, at least, as old as 1582 (approximately) when The Spanish Tragedy was written by Thomas Kyd.

Photo courtesy of Villanova Theatre

On Friday, April 12, I had the pleasure of seeing Villanova Theatre‘s final production of its 2023-2024 season, The Spanish Tragedy, which I’d highly recommend seeing for the production’s closing weekend, from April 18-21.

Before classic revenge tales like Shakespeare’s Hamlet and modern revenge flicks like John Wick and Promising Young Woman, there was The Spanish Tragedy. The Spanish Tragedy follows courtier Hieronimo as he is stricken with grief and anger after the unjust murder of his son. Alongside the determined Bel-Imperia, the pair go down an intricate and unyielding path of bloody vengeance–and I definitely mean bloody.

My thoughts after seeing the play: The Spanish Tragedy is an enrapturing tale of revenge, madness, love, and grief. Through the compelling narrative, superb art direction, and outstanding performances, it invokes feelings of righteous indignation and morally grey satisfaction, as you root for Hieronimo and Bel-Imperia’s vengeance.

The Spanish Tragedy is truly a must-watch. Despite its bloody and tragic subject matter, it still manages to sneak in comedy and not feel overly heavy. In what I can describe only as being an Elizabethan era reality show, the 2-and-a-half hour runtime seemed to fly by–no watch-checking, no passing thoughts. It’s a truly spectacular–and I mean, it certainly succeeds in creating a spectacle that’s hard to peel your eyes away from–way for Villanova Theatre to finish the season.

Want to hear from the Dramaturg? Browse the production’s Dramaturgy website for a glimpse into the history of The Spanish Tragedy and its playwright, the show’s themes, content information, and more.

To find prompts to encourage further discussion or contemplation after the show, check out the education guide.

If you’re interested in exploring the The Spanish Tragedy academically with other scholars and theatre enthusiasts, consider attending the The Spanish Tragedy Symposium 2024 on April 19-20. More information, including a schedule of events and registration information, can be found here.

If you want some behind the scenes insights from someone involved in the production, read GA Rebecca’s blog.

Tickets for The Spanish Tragedy are available for purchase here.

Annie Stockmal is a second-year graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant in Falvey Library.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, Maya Angelou wrote, “Life is going to give you just what you put in it. Put your whole heart in everything you do, and pray, then you just wait.”

Life’s what you make it—yes, technically I’m also quoting Hannah Montana, but it’s poignant. If we don’t put in the effort and the heart, the outcome will rarely astound us.

Yet, when you put your heart and soul into what you’re passionate about, you might be surprised by how much you can achieve. So, don’t be afraid to put your heart into what you do. You might just end up reaping the benefits.

THIS WEEK AT FALVEY

Monday, April 15

Mindfulness Monday | 1-1:30 p.m. | Multifaith Prayer Room, St. Rita’s Hall | Virtual Option | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to Villanova Students, Faculty, & Staff

Center for Speaking and Presentation/The Learners’ Studio | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Tuesday, April 16

Center for Speaking and Presentation/The Learners’ Studio | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Wednesday, April 17

2024 St. Catherine of Siena Research Award Symposium | 10-11:30 a.m. | Room 205 | Free & Open to the Public

Overdose Reversal Training | 12-1:30 p.m. | Room 132, Driscoll Hall | Free & Open to Students, Faculty, & Staff

Center for Speaking and Presentation/The Learners’ Studio | 4-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Africana Studies Presents the Annual Ida B. Wells Lecture | 5 p.m. | Speakers’ Corner | Free & Open to the Villanova Community

Thursday, April 18

Center for Speaking and Presentation/The Learners’ Studio | 12-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

Spring 2024 Digital Seeds Speaker Series: Mapping the Margins: Gay Travel Guides & the Promise of Digital History | 4-5 p.m. | Virtual | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public | Register Here

Friday, April 19

2024 Concept Recognition Ceremony | 2-3:30 p.m. | Connelly Center Cinema (Panel) & Grad Center Student Lounge, Vasey Hall (Reception) | ACS-Approved | Free & Open to the Public | Livestream Here

Sunday, April 21

Center for Speaking and Presentation/The Learners’ Studio | 3-9 p.m. | Room 301 | Free

HOLIDAYS THIS WEEK

Photo by Tina Dawson on Unsplash

Tomorrow, April 16, is National Librarians Day, a day celebrating librarians (which we’ve got plenty of here at Falvey). Of course, we’d like to celebrate our wonderful librarians and all the wonderful work they do to facilitate quality scholarship at Villanova. It’s also prime time for paper writing right now, so if you want to take advantage of Falvey’s invaluable resources, you can find our subject librarians here.

If you’ve got a sweet tooth (or just like fruit), Wednesday, April 17 is National Banana Day. Bananas are a surprisingly divisive fruit, with debates not only about liking them altogether but also when to eat them—when they’re greenish, bright yellow, or more brown. Personally, I like them yellow with brown speckles. Regardless of your preferences, if you’re a fan of this potassium-rich fruit, enjoy a banana today, or, if you’re in the mood for baking, make some banana bread or banana nut muffins.

Sunday, April 21, is National Tea Day. Tea is a very versatile drink with countless options to choose from, whether you’re in the mood for a cold glass of sweet tea for a pick-me-up on a hot day or a warm cup of chamomile tea to help yourself relax after a stressful day. If you’re a tea drinker, today’s the perfect excuse to enjoy a nice cup of tea.

Annie Stockmal is a second-year graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant in Falvey Library.

Did you (safely) check out the recent eclipse (along with practically everyone else on campus?) Then see whether we spotted your friendly face at our event or outside of the Library!

Photo at the event courtesy of Emilie Agras ’25 CLAS.

By Shawn Proctor

Ed Scion, PhD, with Margot Accettura, STEM Librarian, Falvey Library

A full house attended the recent Scholarship@Villanova lecture series talk by Ed Sion, PhD, Professor of Astronomy & Astrophysics, honoring his book Accreting White Dwarfs: from Exoplanetary Probes to Classical Novae and Type Ia Supernovae. This series recognizes scholarly publications, ongoing research, and other intellectual contributions of faculty members from all five colleges of Villanova University.

Shawn Proctor, MFA, is Communication and Marketing Program Manager at Falvey Library.

By Shawn Proctor

Ruth Ozeki, author of The Book of Form and Emptiness is announced as the winner of The 2022 Women’s Prize For Fiction, taking place at Bedford Square Gardens, London. Picture date: Wednesday June 15, 2022. PA Photo. As the winner of the prize, which is now in its 27th year, Ruth Ozeki will receive £30,000. Photo credit should read: Ian West/PA Wire (Used for editorial purposes, courtesy of the Women’s Prize)

The Women’s Prize for Fiction longlist was recently announced, and Falvey Library has acquired the full longlist of books (along with many other DEI-focused award-winning or nominated books). A special landing page will help patrons learn what titles have been added and how to search for them within the Library’s collection. See the full list at the bottom of this blog!

“The Women’s Prize for Fiction is a celebration of women’s creativity and literary achievements. We’re excited to offer the Women’s Prize longlist from this year forward as part of an initiative to diversify our shelves. One of our vendor partners, Gobi, is offering an approval plan based on DEI-focused literary prizes, so a curated list of award-winning titles will be highlighted in the main collection,” says Danielle Dempsey, MLIS, Metrics and Assessment Librarian.

In fall 2023, Falvey Library introduced a new collection of print books that have been nominated for or awarded the diversity-focused prizes listed on this page. This highlighted collection aligns with Falvey Library’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Collection Development Statement, which informs collection development in all subject areas across the Library.

Please note: the Women’s Prize also launched an inaugural non-fiction prize, which is also exciting and worth a look!

• Hangman by Maya Binyam, published by ONE (Pushkin Press)
• In Defence of the Act by Effie Black, published by époque press
• And Then She Fell by Alicia Elliott, published by Allen & Unwin
• The Wren, The Wren by Anne Enright, published by Jonathan Cape
• The Maiden by Kate Foster, published by Mantle
• Brotherless Night by V.V. Ganeshananthan, published by Viking
• Restless Dolly Maunder by Kate Grenville, published by Canongate Books
• Enter Ghost by Isabella Hammad, published by Jonathan Cape
• Soldier Sailor by Claire Kilroy, published by Faber & Faber
• 8 Lives of a Century-Old Trickster by Mirinae Lee, published by Virago
• The Blue, Beautiful World by Karen Lord, published by Gollancz
• Western Lane by Chetna Maroo, published by Picador
• Nightbloom by Peace Adzo Medie, published by Oneworld
• Ordinary Human Failings by Megan Nolan, published by Jonathan Cape
• River East, River West by Aube Rey Lescure, published by Duckworth Books
• A Trace of Sun by Pam Williams, published by Legend Press

Shawn Proctor, MFA, is Communication and Marketing Program Manager at Falvey Library.

Happy Friday, Wildcats! Falvey Library is delivering you another semester of Weekend Recs, a blog dedicated to filling you in on what to read, listen to, and watch over the weekend. Annie, a graduate assistant from the Communication department, scours the internet, peruses the news, and digs through book stacks to find new, relevant, and thought-provoking content that will challenge you and prepare you for the upcoming week. A disclaimer that this column is intended for reflection and entertainment (not for academic research, for example), and infuses scholarly content as possible.

Photo by Trnava University on Unsplash

This week, April 7-13, is National Library Week, a week dedicated to appreciating what libraries do for communities. Whether it’s a university library like Falvey or a public library, libraries are absolutely vital for our communities to learn, research, create, and gather. They provide books, yes, but also technology, expert librarians, digital resources, and so much more. Even the physical spaces provide people with accessible spaces, whether it’s to work on homework, meet with peers, or curl up with a good book.

In celebration of National Library Week, this weekend’s recs are all about libraries.

If you have 2 minutes…and want to stay up-to-date on Library news and events, subscribe to our newsletter. More details here.

If you have 10 minutes…and want to read about a current problem many libraries across the country are experiencing, read this article about the increase in book bans.

Bonus: for more information on banned books, including the 10 most challenged books of 2023, check out the American Library Associations’ Banned & Challenged Books page.

If you have 15 minutes…and want to learn about how libraries are building and bettering communities, listen to this TED Talk. Not only are the books and academic resources that libraries provide vital, libraries also serve as accessible, safe spaces and community hubs for people to gather, create, and learn.

Bonus: if you want to see some of the things Falvey patrons had to say about what they loved about the Library, check out this “Curious Cat” blog post.

If you have 1 hour and 38 minutes…and want to watch a movie that makes you want to go to the library, watch Matilda, available in Falvey’s DVD Collection. I might be biased because this is one of my favorite movies, but this movie shows how important libraries can be for providing safe spaces and, of course, lots of books. (You can also stream the musical movie version of Matilda on Netflix).

Bonus: check out my “Libraries Go to Hollywood” blog post about the library in Matilda.

If you have 1 hour and 45 minutes…and want to watch a movie with a fun library twist, watch Ghostbusters (1984), available to stream for free through Sling TV.

If you have 5 hours…and like mystery novels, read Agatha Christie’s The Body in the Library, available at Falvey. It might be a private library, but it still counts.

Bonus: if you want to read another library-centric book, read Ruth Ozeki’s The Book of Form and Emptiness, available at Falvey.

If you want to celebrate Falvey Hall becoming a hub for Villanova’s academic resources and scholarship as the University’s Library, swing by our 75th Anniversary celebration on Monday, April 22 from 1-3 p.m. on the Falvey Hall Patio for some sweet treats and festivities. More details can be found here. 

Annie Stockmal is a second-year graduate student in the Communication Department and Graduate Assistant in Falvey Library.

Happy Thursday, Wildcats! This week, the Curious Cat team asked library patrons, “What is your favorite emoji or gif to use with your friends?”

“The ‘You Got It Dude’ Michelle Tanner Gif”
-Lily Matranga ’25 CLAS

“🫡”
-Sadie Callahan ’25 COE

“😵‍💫”
-Nikky Sherriff ’26 CON

Rebecca Amrick is a first-year graduate student in the English Department and a Graduate Assistant at Falvey Library.

Julia Wagner ’26 CLAS is a second-year Economics major and student worker at Falvey Library.