In these days of post-structuralism and deconstructionism, the very idea of setting out to codify our language is a task fraught with semiotic pitfalls. Thankfully, the dictionary’s founding father Noah Webster didn’t concern himself with such angst; he just systematically set down word after word.
The Noah Webster House (227 South Main St., W. Hartford, 860/521-5362, www.noahwebsterhouse.org [1], 1 p.m.–4 p.m. Thu.–Mon., $7 adults, $5 seniors, $4 students, free children under 5) explores Noah’s obsession with language as well as his little-known political views; moreover, it re-creates the typical life of a colonial citizen with hands-on activities and demonstrations by costumed interpreters.
Links:
[1] http://www.noahwebsterhouse.org