Nelson in Naples

Public Lecture | Updated 1 decade ago

Painting of Naples Bay
Aivazovsky: Gulf of Naples 1845
Image from public domain

Presented by Michael Sargeant, Chairman, Nelson Society of Australia Inc.

Join Mike Sargeant for an account of the political intrigue, rebellion, counter-revolution, brutal retribution, passion, adultery and general debauchery that surrounded Horatio Nelson, (later Viscount Nelson) during his period in Naples through the closing years of the 18th century.

Fresh from his outstanding victory over the French at the Battle of the Nile in August 1798, Nelson spent the following two years in Naples, wrecking his marriage and somewhat tarnishing his reputation in the process. Nelson established his base in Naples, and subsequently became entangled both in Neapolitan politics and also with the wife of the British Ambassador to Naples, Emma, Lady Hamilton. The two years that he spent in Naples (between September 1798 and mid-1800) were times of violent social upheaval in Europe, and are generally reckoned to be the two most controversial years of Nelson's short lifetime.

Join us for this chapter in the overall story of Nelson’s life that illustrates the enduring legacy and significance of his time in Naples and the devotion to his paramour, Lady Hamilton.

COST: $12 per person. Includes light refreshments after the lecture.
BOOKINGS: Essential on using the below below or call 1300 134 081. Please RSVP by 5.00pm, Wednesday 15 October.