Traveling exhibit on display in the ͷapp Library from August 26 — September 27

The ͷapp Library hosts the traveling exhibit “And there’s the humor of it!” Shakespeare and the Four Humors, now open to the public through September 27. This engaging exhibit explores the relationship between William Shakespeare’s literary genius and the ancient theory of the four bodily humors — blood, yellow bile, black bile, and phlegm — and their profound influence on the author's works and character development.

The exhibit is free and open to the public, inviting visitors of all ages to enjoy a fascinating blend of literature, history, and early medical theory. Visitors can determine their own dominant humor with a temperament test inspired by online psychometric assessments. Participants will also receive exclusive stickers representing each of the four bodily humors, providing a fun and personalized souvenir from their visit.

Exhibition Highlights

  • In-depth Exploration: Discover how the ancient theory of the four humors influenced societal understanding of human personality and health during Shakespeare's time, and how these concepts are woven into his timeless plays.
  • Rare Artifacts: View a collection of rare books and materials from the esteemed National Library of Medicine (NLM) and the Folger Shakespeare Library, showcasing historical texts that shaped early modern thought.
  • Interactive Experience: Participate in a quick and insightful temperament test inspired by historical practices, providing a personal connection to the themes explored in the exhibit.

Originally displayed in the NLM's History of Medicine Division Reading Room in 2012, the exhibit was refreshed in 2022 into a responsive online format, expanding its accessibility and educational reach. The traveling banners provide an immersive, physical experience that complements the digital resources available through the NLM.

Visit the Exhibit

  • Dates: August 26 — September 27
  • Location: ͷapp Library, 1433 Howard St., Petoskey, MI
  • Hours: Monday — Thursday: 8 a.m. — 7 p.m., Friday: 8 a.m. — 5 p.m.
  • Admission: Free to all visitors
  • Additional Activities: Temperament test and four humors stickers available

For more information about the exhibit or related events, visit , call 231-348-6615, or email library@ncmich.edu.