Queen Caroline and the Power of Caricature in Georgian England

The Queen Caroline controversy of 1820-21 was a significant event in British history, and this book will be the first dedicated study of the role of Georgian caricature in it. Caricature played a crucial role in galvanizing public sympathy and support for Caroline, who refused to rescind her claim to the throne. The controversy marked the peak of the 'Golden Age of caricature', a period of remarkable imagination, wit, and political mischief.

Format: Hardback
Length: 135 pages
Publication date: 28 November 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This captivating book delves into the profound impact of Georgian caricature on the equally remarkable Queen Caroline controversy of 1820-21. The story unfolds as the newly crowned George IV, formerly the Prince of Wales, chose to disregard his estranged wife, Caroline, as the rightful queen of Britain. Caroline's steadfast refusal to relinquish her claim to the throne ignited a fervent campaign of sympathy and support, which threatened to topple the government. The British people, united in their support for the 'injured queen,' rallied in their hundreds of thousands, witnessing daily manifestations of rallies, processions, protests, and petitioning. This period marked the pinnacle of the 'Golden Age of caricature,' a remarkable era characterized by boundless imagination, wit, ingenuity, and political mischief. Through a series of captivating images, Caroline emerges victorious over her cowardly and deceitful adversaries, challenging gender and political hierarchies while granting a presence and voice to her marginalized followers. Consequently, this book serves as a dedicated exploration, meticulously chronicling and analyzing this extraordinary achievement.

Weight: 334g
Dimension: 156 x 219 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031462238
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023