Culture
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Priceless oil painting ‘ruined’ by repairs
One of the world’s most famous paintings has been carefully restored by experts to look as it would have looked when it was new, 600 years ago. But many experts think it has been spoilt.
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Meet the woman who might be Shakespeare
Was Shakespeare a woman? For centuries, scholars have puzzled over Shakespeare’s true identity. Now, there is a new contender: Emilia Bassano, England’s first-published, female poet.
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Technology pushes animals out of films
In 1895, a dog wandered past a camera recording one of the first-ever films. Animals have been regular movie stars since then, but technology means they could soon be a thing of the past.
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How we can learn from ancient heroes
Are historical figures better role models than modern people? Ancient generals Alexander the Great and Hannibal reigned supreme in battle. Some say we could learn from their successes.
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Stars fight for the future of live music
Do we need live music? Concerts and festivals were cancelled during the lockdown and fans fear gigs could stop forever. Now, 1,500 artists have signed a letter calling to save the industry.
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Vast ancient structure found near Stonehenge
Can we learn from our ancestors? The largest prehistoric structure in the UK was built by hand with simple tools. Some experts say we should be inspired by our Stone Age predecessors.
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Social media stands up to racism
Can social media be a force for good? Last week, millions posted black squares across channels in support of the Black Lives Matter movement – but critics suggest it is not enough.
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TikTok gets serious about climate change
Is TikTok a force for good? The fastest growing app in the world was developed so teenagers could mess around. Now, young people are using it to speak out and make a difference.
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Social media goes to war against the virus
At first, the official advice was to sing “Happy Birthday” while washing your hands. Now, people are getting creative on social media in attempts to help control the spread of the virus.
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Secrets of England’s greatest treasure trove
A new exhibition of 600 objects valued at £3.28m is to highlight the dazzling artistic creations of the Anglo-Saxons and the lessons we can learn from their way of life, 1,400 years on.
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Nicest man in the world inspires us all
In the film A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood, Tom Hanks plays a character who is deeply and completely kind and decent. Based on a true story, millions of people are flocking to see it.
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- Reading Band 8
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Toughest man in Japan bursts into tears
Last week, a top sumo wrestler burst into tears of joy and relief when he won the famous Emperor’s Cup. It sparked a debate about whether athletes should try harder to hide their feelings.
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JiffPom tops list of cutest social media stars
This cuddly creature is the most popular animal on Instagram in Britain. We human love our furry friends to bits. But some people say we should give more attention to humans in need.
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A new national anthem – for Mars!
Does Mars need a national anthem? An opera singer has just performed his latest musical piece, Rise to Mars! Will it inspire people to head to the Red Planet?
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Cave painting could be ‘oldest-recorded story’
Is this picture the world’s oldest recorded story? Dating of a painting on the wall of a cave in Indonesia has revealed it to be 44,000 years old. Does it tell the story of a buffalo hunt?