- Talk
- Science & Technology
- Manchester
- 7 October 2026
Much Ado about Numbers: Shakespeare’s Mathematical Life and Times’
Award-winning author Rob Eastaway reveals how numbers, calculation, and curiosity influenced Shakespeare's world.
7 October 2026
6:30pm - 8:00pm
Pendulum Hotel
Sackville Street Manchester M1 3BB
£15.00 General Admission / £6.00 Students / Members book for FREE
Overview
What do poetry, astronomy, arithmetic, music, accountancy and ciphers have in common? The answer: Shakespeare!
In this highly acclaimed talk, award-winning author Rob Eastaway reveals the surprising connections between Shakespeare and the fascinating world of numbers. Drawing on quotations from a wide range of the Bard’s works, from Macbeth to Romeo and Juliet and beyond, Rob explores how numbers, calculation, and measurement quietly shaped everyday life in Shakespeare’s time.
Along the way, he reveals how Tudors multiplied, why dice games were a risky business, and why Shakespeare really did make much ado about nothing. From arithmetic and accounting to music and astrology, this talk offers captivating glimpses into history, learning, and the scientific thinking of the Renaissance.
Lively, accessible, and full of surprises, Much Ado About Numbers celebrates a time when every subject was connected — and learning was full of wonder.
Practical Information
Booking is essential.
Accessibility Information
Please contact us regarding any specific accessibility requirements you may have by emailing events@manlitphil.ac.uk
Rob Eastaway
Rob Eastaway is an author and broadcaster. His books include the bestselling ‘Maths On The Back Of An Envelope’ and most recently Much Ado About Numbers about the links between Shakespeare, maths and Elizabethan History. Rob is often to be heard on BBC Radio 4’s award-winning podcast More or Less, and has given talks across the UK at venues including the Royal Institution and the Leeds Playhouse.