Discover Charles Ignatius Sancho, Laurence Sterne and their remarkable correspondence, and explore Sancho’s connection to Georgian York.

Discover the remarkable story of Charles Ignatius Sancho, an eighteenth-century Black British writer, composer and shopkeeper, and his fascinating connection with Yorkshire through his correspondence with Laurence Sterne, author of Tristram Shandy.

In 1766, Sancho wrote to Sterne after reading his novel, praising his writing before making a powerful appeal for him to speak out against slavery. Their exchange offers a fascinating glimpse into questions of race, slavery, citizenship, literature and life in Georgian Britain.

As part of Black History Month, this event will introduce Sancho and his writing before showcasing Two Men of Letters, a new edition of their correspondence produced by York St John University students. Dr Adam James Smith will give a short illustrated talk, followed by students sharing their experiences of researching and publishing Sancho's letters. The event will finish with a question and answer session.

Dr Adam James Smith is Associate Professor of English Literature at York St John University, specialising in eighteenth-century literature, satire and print culture.

The first 20 attendees will receive a free printed copy of the edition, and everyone will receive free digital access.

Content Warning: This event discusses slavery and includes historical language relating to race that may be offensive or distressing to contemporary audiences.

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