Exhibit: Three Sheets to the Wind

Masthead Midshipman

Visit the new Posner Center exhibit, "Three Sheets to the Wind: Sailors Disrupting Society," created by Juliann Reineke, Posner Center intern and PhD candidate in the Department of English. This exhibit will be on display May 4 - November 30, 2017.

This exhibit investigates how caricatures of sailors reflect 18th and 19th century British concerns about Britain’s place in the world. The common British sailor, popularly known as the Jolly Jack Tar, developed as a distinct and recognizable figure in the 18th century, often seen as disrupting society. Representations of Jack Tar also reveal many facets of British masculinity, including drunkenness, bravery, sexuality, and patriotism.

Books and illustrations from both the Posner Collection and Special Collections illustrate a sailor’s life and highlight how characterizations of the Tar remain consistent over time, influencing how people today think about veterans.

Exhibit hours are 1-4 pm, Monday through Friday or by appointment, 412-268-7680.

Related article: Three Minute Thesis Exhibit in Posner Center

Read more about the Posner Center exhibit and internship program.