Behind the mask: identity and role-play in the Georgian masquerade

In Jane Austen’s time, masquerade balls were all the rage, but they were not respectable. Masks, racy behaviour and daring role-play were enticing additions to the delights of dancing and music, but blurred the social norms to a dangerous degree – or so people thought.

This lecture, richly illustrated with historical sources, explores the enduring fascination of the late 18th-century masquerade, including notions of identity, gender, class and cross-dressing. For those attending our annual Masquerade Ball on February 11, this lecture doubles as a how-to workshop of ideas and resources for planning your own Georgian-style costume.

The lecture will be followed by Q&A, tea and goodies, and letter-writing with quill pens and sealing wax. Bring your address book!

Space is limited, so reservations are strongly recommended. Please note that this event is completely fragrance-free.

$25 / $20 students and seniors

1 – 4 pm