History on stage Staging History, 1780 to 1840

In this episode, the contributors discuss why history so frequently featured on stage in this period, and the significance of the historical events that these dramas staged for contemporary audiences. Various examples of history on stage are discussed, ranging from the siege of Gibraltar to Rip van Winkle’s American adventures, and from the conquest of Peru to the Napoleonic wars. The episode concludes with a discussion of the pre-eminent historical fiction author Walter Scott, and the enormous influence of his works on Regency theatre and opera.