Life Unseen: A Story of Blindness

A fascinating history of blindness in the western world.

Imagine a world without sight.

Is it dark and gloomy? Is it terrifying and isolating?

Or is it simply a state of not seeing, which we have demonised and sentimentalized over the centuries?

In this historical adventure, Broadcaster and author Selina Mills takes us on a journey through the history of blindness in Western Culture to discover that blindness is not so dark after all.

Inspired by her own experience of losing her sight as she forged a successful journalistic career, Selina will take us through a historical quest through the lives, stories and achievements of blind people - as well as those sighted people who sought to patronize, demonize, and fix them. From the blind poet Homer, through the myths and moralising of early medieval culture, to the scientific and medical discoveries of the Enlightenment and modern times, the story of blindness turns out to be a story of our whole culture.

What’s Online is a series of talks, in conversation events and webinars delivered by our experts and special guests. Events last approximately one hour, including an audience Q&A.

This event will be presented on Zoom. For the best experience we recommend using either a laptop or desktop computer. You will receive a reminder email, including a link to join in advance of the event. For more information on attending a Zoom event, please visit: https://bit.ly/3fojVtn

Talks are available to watch on catch-up for a limited period of 48 hours only. You will receive a separate link to view the recording once the event is over.