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Sex & the 18th-Century City (and Dr Johnson)...


A chaotic tavern scene from William Hogarth’s A Rake’s Progress, depicting a lively and debauched party. A group of men and women in 18th-century dress gather around a table strewn with food, drink, and playing cards. One man slouches drunkenly as a woman clings to him, while others flirt, argue, or sing. In the background, a woman plays a harp and another blows a fire horn. The room is dimly lit and disorderly, with broken objects and spilled food on the floor. The painting satirises moral decline and excess in Georgian society.

Thursday 11 September

6pm - 8pm

£33.50


Join us for a lively and immersive introduction to the sex trade in Georgian London!





…Many a beau without a shilling,

Many a widow not unwilling;

Many a bargain, if you strike it:

This is London! How d'ye like it?”

(John Bancks, 1700s)


Join us for a lively and immersive introduction to the sex trade in Georgian London!


Dr Samuel Johnson lived in London at a very interesting time. In the 18th century, at the height of the British Empire, the sex trade thrived on the dark underbelly of the city's streets. And Dr Johnson knew ALL about it.


Through theatrical storytelling combined with a historical lecture, Maria Beadell, of Herstorical Tours, brings to life the sordid world of the sex trade in 1700s London and Dr Johnson's involvement in the industry. Comparing the sex trade in Georgian times with that of today, she asks, has it changed?


You can expect an entertaining evening during which you will also meet a famed courtesan and friend of Dr Johnson in person. She will be welcoming you to his house and giving a short performance prior to Maria's talk.


Limited capacity. Early booking advised.


Tickets include welcome drink and a chance to view Dr Johnson's House.



A formal 18th-century portrait of a young woman seated before a deep red curtain, painted by Nathaniel Hone in 1765. She gazes softly at the viewer, with dark hair pinned back and a delicate red necklace around her neck. She wears a sheer, embroidered gown and holds part of the fabric modestly to her chest. On the table beside her rests a sleepy black-and-white cat, adding a domestic and intimate touch to the elegant composition.


Accessibility

There is regrettably no step-free access to Dr Johnson's House.

There are seven steps to access the entrance (with a handrail).

The building is a four-storey townhouse with a staircase between each floor.

There are handrails on each side of the staircase and visitor seating in every room.

Toilets are located down a steep set of stairs.



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