18th-century periodicals as sources, a case study : The lady's magazine, 1770

Author / Creator

Brunelli, Giampiero, author

Available as

Online

Summary

Periodicals constitute quintessential historical sources. Serial publications first appeared in Europe at the beginning of the 17th century, and news-sheets, news-books and newspapers have been avi...

Periodicals constitute quintessential historical sources. Serial publications first appeared in Europe at the beginning of the 17th century, and news-sheets, news-books and newspapers have been avidly read since then. In the 18th century, other serial publications appeared: the so-called 'periodical essays' and magazines (that is, monthly miscellanies). Both played an important role in activating a fundamental process, i.e. the birth of modern public opinion. This case study deals with a well-known periodical, The Lady's Magazine (1770-1832). The preliminary focus will be on early modern serial publications generally, highlighting the main features of their main categories. First of all news-sheets and newspapers, and then both the 'periodical essay' and the magazine will be examined. Finally, a critical evaluation of The Lady's Magazine will be provided, reading the source in its context, and revealing its potential (and limitations).

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