Watch In Search of Walt Whitman - The Civil War and Beyond (1861–1892) for free

This engrossing documentary traces the remarkable life of Walt Whitman (1819-1892), the turbulent times he lived through, and the timeless poetry he created. Combining narration, dramatic readings, evocative period music, expert commentary, and striking photography filmed in key locations, the film brings Whitman’s unique character and revolutionary works to life. In this program, we follow Whitman’s move to Washington, D.C., where he cares for wounded Civil War soldiers, only to become disillusioned with the societal changes of the Gilded Age. After recovering from a debilitating stroke, Whitman spends his remaining years in Camden, New Jersey, continuing to write. The episode highlights some of his most celebrated poems, including When Lilacs Last in the Dooryard Bloom’d, O Captain! My Captain!, The Wound-Dresser, and Goodbye My Fancy.