Talks / Ideas / Philosophy

Death of a Victorian Gentleman: One Man's Journey From Sickbed to Grave to Remembrance

Various venues across London

Wed 28 Oct · 19:00 · £20.25

90m · Talk

About this event

"Death of a Victorian Gentleman: One Man's Journey From Sickbed to Grave to Remembrance" With Andrea Woodside Summary: Step inside a Victorian home and follow one person through the final chapter of life — from the sickroom to the grave, and beyond. Our story begins with a Victorian gentleman suffering from consumption, one of the nineteenth century’s most feared and familiar diseases. As death approaches, we explore what Victorians understood by a ‘good death’, the role of the doctor and clergy, and the rituals that began almost as soon as life ended. Who washed and laid out the body? Why might windows be opened, clocks stopped and mirrors covered? Who came to view the deceased, and what was expected of the grieving family? From the undertaker and coffin maker, the funeral invitation, funeral biscuits, mourning stationery and the solemn procession to the local churchyard, we will follow the practical arrangements, customs and extraordinary etiquette surrounding a Victorian funeral. But, the funeral was not the end; mourning itself came with rules: what to wear, how long to wear it, when to re-enter society and even how grief should be displayed. Through one death, discover the fascinating world of the Victorian funeral using objects from the National Funeral Museum's extensive collection — where grief, superstition, social convention and spectacle came together. Bio: Andrea Woodside is Collections Curator at the National Funeral Museum, and a Trustee and tour guide at one of London's Magnificent Seven cemeteries. A taphophile since the age of six, Andrea has spent her career in hospice care and is a regular speaker on death, dying, and the importance of a proper goodbye. Venue : Effra Social, 89 Effra Road SW2 1DF Event Running Time: (We recommend arriving at 6:30pm if you're eating, and 7pm if drinks only) Doors from 7pm Introduction: 7:25pm Lecture: 7:30pm Q&A: 8:10pm Finish: 8:30pm FAQs: What is Pints of Knowledge? Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond. What happens at Pints of Knowledge? At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting. What if I don't drink alcohol ? No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable. Can I attend without a ticket? Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket. There is occasionally the option to purchase a ticket on the door for our sold-out events, but we cannot guarantee this. Is there food available? Yes, there is usually the option to purchase food at our events - please see each venue's menu on their website. If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts. In the unlikely event the kitchen isn't open, there will typically be an option to order in food from elsewhere or bring your own food. Can I get my ticket refunded? We issue full ticket refunds if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser. Can I get my ticket exchanged? We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 48 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser . Is the event pet/baby friendly? Yes, we allow pets and babies to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive. Is the venue accessible? All of our venues are accessible, besides the following: The Old Queen's Head, The Landor, The Alma, and The Morpeth Arms.