identity, imagination and george iv in Edinburgh, 1822

public lecture, 1 september 2022

George IV’s visit to Edinburgh in August 1822 has received a remarkably consistent interpretation by historians. It is often dismissed in a series of well-worn epithets as ‘the King’s Jaunt’, ‘One and twenty daft days’, a ‘plaided panorama’ based on ‘fake Highland regalia’ all ‘stage-managed’ by Sir Walter Scott. Identity, imagination and George IV in Edinburgh, 1822 will offer a fresh perspective on the visit, its misunderstood impact on Scottish cultural identity and on the relationship between monarchy and the people of Scotland.

Professor Arthur Burns (Academic Director of the Georgian Papers Programme) and Professor Paul Readman, both of King’s College London’s history department, will join Robert Pirrie, the Society’s Chief Executive, on stage in the Upper Library for his lecture, followed by all three taking questions from the audience.

This event is free.