P.G.Wodehouse – “Jeeves and the British Empire”

A talk by Dr Sean Lang

What ho! How the creator of Jeeves and Bertie Wooster helped bring down the bally British Empire.

This is a historian’s take on PG Wodehouse – a significantly different approach from the usual literary scholar’s way of reading him. Historians often underestimate the importance of light comedy, both as a source and as a factor in causing events in the past. PG Wodehouse’s creations – Jeeves and Bertie Wooster; Lord Emsworth and his pig; the members of the Drones Club and their formidable aunts – exist in an idyllic world which seems miles away from the harsh reality of the times when they were created. But what makes people laugh is a good clue to what they are thinking and Wodehouse’s humour also reflected the outlook and beliefs of his readers – including about the British Empire.

NB: it is anticipated that the Jubilee Pavilion will be undergoing refurbishment at some point, so this talk may move venue.
This webpage will be updated as soon as arrangement are confirmed.

All talks are free to members, or £3 for guests / non-members, payable on the door.