London has played host to a vibrant array of queer experiences, from the cruising ground of Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens and Hampstead Heath, riotous Molly houses of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, "scandalous" displays of lesbian affection by High Society, and the birth of queer activism. Yet all of this has taken place amidst a culture of criminalisation, policing, and violence.

By telling the stories of radical queer individuals and communities, and exploring important cultures that underpin queer history, such as cruising, sex work, policing, and Aids activism, this course offers an exploration of the rich and contradictory world of pleasure and constraint.

The course will use a broad selection of archival material, drawing on oral history, interviews, pamphlets, films, and fiction. Through these resources, we will consider the constrictions of gender, race, and class in shaping the possibilities and experiences of being queer in London and the unique place London has in the development of queer cultures and communities.

Do I need any previous skills or knowledge?

This course is for anyone with an interest in LGBTQ+ history and queer British culture and archives. No prior experience or knowledge is required.

What can I expect?

The course will involve discussion of historical documents as well as cultural texts such as novels, poems and film. It will be delivered through a mix of interactive lectures, small and large group discussion and video clips, images and short texts. There will be optional reading for each session.

Joining via Zoom

This course or event will be held via Zoom. You need a computer/laptop or mobile phone to access the Zoom website, and a reliable internet connection. For further information on how to join a Zoom meeting, you can watch the joining video here.

You will need a computer or other device to connect with Zoom and a notebook/paper and pen/pencil, or digital equivalent.