Programme Outline
The programme focuses on three main issues. These are:
- the debate over whether there should be an Exhibition at all
- the experience of the Exhibition itself
- the impact of the Exhibition on British people’s perception of themselves
The plans for the Exhibition and the building [0.00-2.10]
The programme opens by acknowledging the darker side of Victorian Britain. It then points out that many Victorians were optimistic and proud of their country and its achievements – and they looked for further achievements. This is the context for the debate about the Exhibition.
Opening of the Exhibition and reactions to it [2.10-6.34]
This section of the programme throws up interesting similarities between Britain in 1851 and Britain today. There is an unmistakable party atmosphere reflected in the press. What also comes across is the popularity of Queen Victoria and the Prince Consort, Albert, said to be the guiding light of the Exhibition. Another factor is the fascination with machinery. Even by 1851 Britain was not fully industrialised. Thousands still used hand-powered tools in small workshops rather than giant machines in great factories. The new machines were a marvel to many people.
What the Exhibition revealed about Britain [6.34-end]
This section invites comparisons between Britain in the 1850s and the USA today. Both are 'superpowers'. The extracts reveal an immense pride in business and commercial achievements, and there is an attitude that Britain's success is at least partly due to its way of life, its constitution and its people.
The 'shilling fee' refers to the entrance fee of 1 shilling. Some feared that this would allow too many people of the 'lower classes' into the Exhibition.
