Author Talk

Dr. Thomas McLean from the University of Otago talks about the fascinating life and work of the Romantic dramatist and poet Joanna Baillie, and the work that goes into producing a collection of 200-year-old letters.

Join us at 5.30pm for a welcome glass of wine, courtesy of Glengarry Wines.

Scottish playwright and poet Joanna Baillie (1762-1851) is a key literary figure of the British Romantic era. Scholars have argued for her importance as a forceful and original playwright, a major poet of Scottish songs and ballads, and a passionate writer on aesthetic and theological issues.

In recent years her writings have returned to print, her plays have been performed in North America and the United Kingdom, and she has been the subject of several monographs and a biography.

Baillie's circle of friends was impressive and included many well-known writers, artists, theologians, scientists and surgeons. McLean’s edition of Baillie's correspondence offers a remarkable five-decade portrait of an artist engaged with the most significant literary, religious, and political issues of her day. Those interested in Scottish literature, British theatre, or 19th-century women writers will find these wide-ranging letters informative and fascinating. Dr. McLean will read from her letters during his talk.

Thomas McLean is a lecturer in 19th century literature at the University of Otago and editor of Further Letters of Joanna Baillie. A recipient of research fellowships from Harvard, Yale, UCLA, and ANU, he has published numerous articles on British women writers, literature and nationalism, and the historical novel.

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