Let's Talk About It! Spies: Heroes or Villains

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Middlebury Public Library

Event Details

Explore the world of spies. Discover the reality versus the fantasy and the influence of spies on major world events. This evening discuss Liar, Temptress, Soldier, Spy by Karen Abbott. Guest lecturer Kyle Schlabach, Adjunct Professor of English, Goshen College, gives a 45 minute presentation. After a short break, there is a small group discussion facilitated by leaders, questions provided. The entire group reassembles briefly for final questions and comments. Register and pick up the book at the library's front desk.

Plot summary: Abbott seamlessly weaves the true adventures of four heroines throughout the tumultuous years of the Civil War. There's Belle Boyd who after shooting a Union soldier in her home became a spy for the Confederates, using her charms to seduce men on both sides. Emma Edmondson cut off her hair and assumed the identity of a man to enlist as a Union private and infiltrate enemy lines. The beautiful widow, Rose O'Neale Greenhow, engaged in affairs with powerful Northern politicians to gather intelligence for the Confederacy. Elizabeth Van Lew, a wealthy Richmond abolitionist, orchestrated an espionage ring, right under the noses of suspicious rebel detectives.

Event Type(s): Adult Program, Book Discussion-adult, Let's Talk About It
Age Group(s): 18 & over