The Tramp: The Life and Movies of Charlie Chaplin

Charlie Chaplin was an actor, filmmaker, and composer who rose to fame during the silent film era of the early 20th Century, an era he helped to define. He experienced childhood poverty in London, England, but survived to live a "rags to riches" story tale life. The Tramp, his signature character, debuted in 1914 and soon after propelled Chaplin to worldwide fame. In this study group, we will explore how Chaplin's movies bridged the sound era and dealt with comedy, adversity, romance, satire, and politics. Chaplin brilliantly composed music for some of the films. Later in life he would experience a number of difficult personal challenges. Study group members will view a film documentary, The Real Charlie Chaplin (Directors Peter Middleton and James Spinney, 2021) (available on several streaming, subscription networks or for purchase on Amazon Prime) and then discuss in the classroom on week one. For weeks two thru seven, a participant will lead the discussion of a Chaplin movie (available on Amazon Prime and or Apple TV): A Woman of Paris(1923), The Gold Rush(1925), The Circus(1928), City Lights(1931), Modern Times(1936), The Great Dictator(1940), Monsieur Verdoux(1947), and Limelight(1952). Join us as we explore the life and legend of Charlie Chaplin.