THE TERCENTENARY.

The returning population of academic Cambridge begins the spring term with a celebration of the Shakspere Tercentenary which is appropriate and adequate. In spite of the fact that a Chicago judge has solemnly ruled that Bacon wrote Shakspere, Sir Johnston Forbes-Robertson's three performances of "Hamlet" in Sanders. Theatre have aroused an interest in the University such as no event in the drama has aroused for some years. In fact, it is comforting to have the mooted question forever disposed of, if only the higher court does not rule that the question does not come within its jurisdiction.

In giving his farewell performances in Sanders, Sir Johnston Forbes-Robertson not only makes possible for the University a fitting celebration of the Shaksperean anniversary, but confers a delicate compliment upon Harvard. It is doubtful if there is another university in the land where Shakspere is more thoroughly taught and studied and from more varied points of view. Professor Kittredge is the scholar who has made dear the meaning of Shakspere's plays, and who has done most to foster the study of Shakspere in the University. Professor Baker has analyzed Shakspere's dramatic technique, and found in it a source from which to train successful dramatists. Professor Wendell has done a great deal for Shaksperean criticism; Professor Neilson's "Tudor Shakspere" is one of the most popular editions. Some courses treat Shakspere directly; almost all courses in literature have very much to say about him. Hence it is appropriate that this University, a Shaksperean stronghold, should commemorate in this manner.

The stage for "Hamlet" will be modelled upon that constructed in 1893 for the production of Ben Jonson's "Silent Woman," reproduced in 1903 for the performance of "Twelfth Night" by Maude Adams. On account of the elaborateness of the preparations, the talent of the actor, and the impressiveness of the occasion this production of "Hamlet" is the most important event of several years in drama at Harvard.