Name: Poetry, parties, and pleasure in the court of James VI and I
Start: 2024-07-18T17:30:00+01:00
End: 2024-07-18T18:30:00+01:00
Location: National Library of Scotland

Poetry, parties, and pleasure in the court of James VI and I

Step into the opulent world of James VI and I with Steven Veerapen, and explore the court of a monarch who ruled over Scotland and England.
About this Event

Magnificent parties, extravagant masques, and the study of poetry were all defining parts of James VI and I’s court.

Steven Veerapen will discuss the fascinating contrasts between James's Scottish and English displays of wealth. Through examination of royal demonstrations of learning, affluence, and power north and south of the border, James’s changing approach to kingship will become clear.

Veerapen will also explore the role of James’ peacocking courtiers in the culture of his court, particularly the infamous Duke of Buckingham. Buckingham features as the main character in the recent Sky drama, ‘Mary & George’.

This event accompanies the Library's new exhibition 'Renaissance: Scotland and Europe 1480-1630' opening at George IV Bridge on Friday 21 June.

About the speaker

Steven Veerapen was born in Glasgow and raised in Paisley. He is currently teaching associate in English at Strathclyde.

<h4>Photo credit: Virginia Historical Society, National Portrait Gallery, and the National Gallery of Scotland.</h4>

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