These are the recordings of the lecture series called 'Andrew Saint: London 1870-1914: a City at its Zenith' recorded in 2021.
This series is timed to coincide with the publication by Lund Humphries of Andrew Saint’s new book London 1870–1914: A City at its Zenith. Like the book, the talks will run chronologically, covering the development of the British capital at a time when, in the speaker’s view, it reached its highest position on the world stage. Using architecture, literature and art as a means towards a wider understanding of the metropolis, they will present a story of diversity and creativity, and of social progress in the face of great odds. The author will argue that in almost every aspect London was a much better city in 1914 than in 1870.
In the first lecture of the series, Andrew Saint will discuss London in the 1870s. Though the 1870s was a decade of social stability in London, it also witnessed the stirrings of a fresh individualism and secularism, and the emergence of Art for Art’s Sake, and the Queen Anne style in architecture. ‘Queen Anne’ was memorably taken up by the School Board for London, the most radical of several boards that sought to tackle the inadequacies of parish government. The growth of the suburbs will also come into this talk, which will end with a revised reading of Bedford Park.
Andrew Saint is a long-time member of the Victorian Society, recently completed an eight-years stint as a trustee of the Society and has been a member of the Southern Buildings Committee for many years. He was General Editor of the Survey of London between 2006 and 2015. London 1870–1914 is his fifth independent book.
After booking a ticket, you will be given access to the recording of the event. Please ignore the event date in the listings.
This event helps raise funds for The Victorian Society - the only charity dedicated to fighting for our Victorian and Edwardian heritage. Join us today and safeguard our unique cultural heritage for future generations! For further information, click here.
The Victorian Society is an IHBC recognised CPD provider.
Image: Kensington House built for Albert Grant
