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In the eighteenth century, people had their share of fun and entertainment in various odd ways in the city of London. From the 1720s onwards, the masquerade became the most extravagant, large-scale and inclusive type. As the word itself suggests, people would dress up, disguising themselves to the point of being unrecognisable. Thus masquerades provided a world of possibilities to people who wished to escape from a dull, strict life. Cross-dressing was naturally acceptable in the topsy-turvy atmosphere of masquerades. Along with exploring the cultural aspect, we shall be looking at how men and women played with their own identity. Imagine dressing up as a monkey or bear or "half man half woman" or even as the Queen of the Amazons for a "Midnight Masquerade" at a time when social etiquette was of essence in public, especially for women.
This seminar will introduce you to the glamorous, lawless, chaotic masquerades of Georgian London. We will look at paintings and pieces of text that will be provided to you on Moodle prior to each session. No reader will be needed. Come one, come all. |
