Events

Dr. Elliot Engel
November 19, 2026

Beyond the Muddy Cloak: The Brilliance of Sir Walter Raleigh

Dr. Elliot Engel returns to Piedmont Arts with “Beyond the Muddy Cloak: The Brilliance of Sir Walter Raleigh” on Thursday, Nov. 19. A dinner with Engel will take place at 5:45 p.m, followed by the lecture at 7 p.m. 

Engel reveals details of Raleigh's fascinating life as an author, explorer, and courtier who deserves to be celebrated for far more than his muddy cloak. Using anecdotes, analysis, and a large dose of humor, he brings this remarkable historical figure to life again.

Engel lives in Raleigh, North Carolina, where he has taught at NC State University, the University of North Carolina, and Duke University. He earned an MA and Ph.D. from UCLA and was awarded that university’s Outstanding Teacher Award. He has written 10 books published in England, Japan, Turkey, and the United States. His mini-lecture series on Charles Dickens aired on PBS stations nationwide. His articles have appeared in numerous newspapers and national magazines. He has lectured throughout the United States and on all the continents, including Antarctica. He was inducted into the Royal Society of Arts in England in 2009 for his academic work and service in promoting Charles Dickens.

Tickets to the dinner and lecture are $50. Dinner reservations must be made in advance. Tickets to the lecture alone are $25.

Buy Tickets:

Beyond the Muddy Cloak: The Brilliance of Sir Walter Raleigh - Thursday, November 19, 2026 - 7:00 PM

@ $25.00 ea. - Lecture
@ $50.00 ea. - Dinner and Lecture

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