An introduction to the history of 19th & early 20th century mental health

About this course

This course investigates how extreme mental states were represented and diagnosed in Britain between approximately 1800 and 1930. Topics include hysteria, moral insanity, alcoholism, paranoia, delusions, neurasthenia, learning difficulties, post-natal psychosis and the medicalisation of femininity, alongside the development and use of public and private asylums. Teaching combines illustrated mini-lectures with seminars and group discussion. Learners will consider disagreements surrounding historical diagnoses and the social contexts in which they were applied.

What you'll learn

• Define key diagnoses used by 19th-century psychiatrists.
• Identify opposition to the theories associated with these diagnoses.
• Use the supplied bibliography and secondary reading list to pursue further study.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for beginners and does not require previous skills or knowledge. It suits learners prepared to engage with historical material through mini-lectures, seminars and discussion, with sharing insights encouraged.

• Group discussion is strongly encouraged.
• Extracts are supplied before the sessions so learners can prepare views and questions.

Before you go

• Learners may bring a notebook and pen for taking notes.
• Reading extracts are sent before the sessions.
• A detailed bibliography and secondary reading list is provided.