Jan Morris is widely viewed as one of Britain’s best-loved writers. Throughout her life, beginning as a journalist to her writings on history, cities: New York, Venice and Hong Kong among them and obviously Oxford - including her years as a foreign correspondent, she never stopped writing during her 70 year career. Her private dilemma was only resolved in the 1972 when she finally transitioned genders from male to female.
As James Morris, she was the only journalist to accompany the successful 1953 Everest expedition, climbing to 22,000 feet. She had the sole responsibility of sharing the news of the successful ascent with the world, using clandestine means.
Her biographer, Paul Clements, will share stories from his much acclaimed biography of Jan Morris, Life from both sides. Having spent time with her he has a fund of insight and memories building an impressive picture of a highly successful and productive writer. Paul's talk will focus much on her role in the Everest expedition and her time in Oxford.
Booking information
- Advance booking for this event is not required.
- Tickets can be purchased on the door. Tickets are £2, and free for RGS-IBG members.
If you have any questions please email events@rgs.org
This event has been organised by the Midlands committee.
Venue information
This event will be held at St Margaret's Institute, 30 Polstead Road, Oxford, OX2 6TN.
- Lecture
Wildly different: how five women reclaimed nature in a man’s world
Sarah Lonsdale recounts five trailblazing women’s adventures across the globe, challenging for their right to work helping to save the Earth’s wild places.
OxfordOpen to allThursday 10 April 2025