A History of Polar Exploration in 50 Objects

Drawing on her latest book, A History of Polar Exploration in 50 Objects: from Cook's Circumnavigations to the Aviation Age, Anne Strathie shares the stories of objects from a period of exploration which is the bedrock of our present-day knowledge and fascination with polar regions. 

Today these objects are located worldwide, whether in polar regions, public spaces, museums and other repositories, or in private collections. Some objects were used by famous explorers, but more testify to important work by mariners, scientists, artists, photographers and filmmakers, or sometimes overlooked roles played by explorers' relatives, sponsors and other supporters. 

Collectively, the objects evidence a continuum of polar endeavour which, notwithstanding national ambitions and personal rivalries, reflect levels of international collaboration to which we should aspire when exploring or attempting to safeguard the increasingly fragile polar regions.

The Royal Geographical Society’s Regional Theatres Programme aims to inform and inspire the general public about the diverse world of geography. We currently collaborate with a number of partner theatres across England and Wales, which are chosen for their character and location. 

A History of Polar Exploration in 50 Objects with Anne Strathie 

Thursday 11th September 7.00pm - 8:50pm (includes a short interval)

Cost: £12/£15

A £1 Poly Fund payment is added to each ticket sold. A 50p booking fee is also applied per ticket for online and telephone transactions.