Surrealism and the legacy of caricature | Alice Loxton on the world of the Georgians

In the final episode of the World of the Georgians, Alice Loxton examines the life, work and lasting legacy of satirist James Gillray – and his influence on modern visual culture

Published: February 2, 2026 at 9:06 AM

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To conclude the series, Alice Loxton turns the spotlight on the artist who shaped Georgian satire more than any other: James Gillray. This episode explores Gillray’s life, his fearless approach to power, and the increasingly surreal and grotesque style that made his work so influential. From terrifying politicians to distorted bodies and absurd scenes, Gillray pushed caricature beyond realism, laying the groundwork for later artistic movements.

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Want more from Alice? Find more episodes of the World of the Georgians here

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Alice Loxton is a historian, presenter and Sunday Times bestselling author with over three million followers on social media.

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