Colin Heywood, Emeritus Professor of Modern French History at the University of Nottingham, focuses on the society and culture in which children were raised in the 19th century.

This talk will cover the massive increase in the quantity and quality of literature written specifically for children in 19th century Britain, which included a shift in content, from heavily didactic works to those concerned above all with giving pleasure to their readers.

It will also analyse the underlying forces at work, notably the growing interest in childhood and education, and the achievement of near-universal literacy.

This is part of a series of free talks to accompany the exhibition From Rags to Witches: The grim tale of children’s stories. For exhibition and event details please visit the Manuscripts and Special Collections website.

Book your ticket at Lakeside Arts.