Visual Culture and Pandemic Disease Since 1750

This insightful exploration examines the visual representation of pandemics from the late 18th century to the 1920s, highlighting cultural narratives and societal impacts. Visual Culture and Pandemic Disease Since 1750 offers a unique perspective.

This book delves into the pictorial representation of epidemics on a global scale, focusing on the period from the late eighteenth century through the 1920s. During this time, the world faced a series of pandemics that coincided with the rise of industrialism, colonialism, and advancements in scientific research. The intersection of these historical events with burgeoning visual culture and new media provides a rich context for understanding how societies have depicted disease and its impact on communities.

The essays within Visual Culture and Pandemic Disease Since 1750 explore a variety of images, from portrayals of individuals and locations to the often-invisible entities of pathogens and the emotional responses they evoke. Topics covered include public health messaging related to disease prevention, the motivations behind governmental control measures, and the role of graphic satire in critiquing authority. The impact of illness on personal and domestic life is also examined, revealing the multifaceted experiences of those affected by pandemics.

Additionally, the book addresses the social narratives surrounding race, gender, and class that frequently emerge in visual depictions of disease. By offering a visual genealogy of pandemic experiences, Visual Culture and Pandemic Disease Since 1750 resonates with contemporary discussions about health and representation. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars in art history, visual studies, the history of medicine, and medical humanities.