Retrospect
Journal.

EDINBURGH UNIVERSITY'S HISTORY, CLASSICS AND ARCHAEOLOGY MAGAZINE

Blog: https://retrospectjournal.com/
Profile: https://retrospectjournal.com/author/retrospectsubmissions/

On the Defence of Wine: Medical Discourse during the Global Temperance Movement

During the temperance movement of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, proponents of the health benefits of wine sought to counter its growing influence. Kat Jivkova examines the cultural and medical discourse which defended its consumption.
‘Do you hear the people sing?’: A History of Civil Unrest in France

Is the stereotype about French people always going on strike true? Ione Gildroy examines a history of civil unrest in France.
Equality in Art: Las Mujeres Sin Sombrero

“Las Sinsombrero” were a group of Spanish female artists in the Generation of 1927 who challenged gender inequality and the lack of recognition for their work. Isabelle Shaw provides a history of their resistance and biographies of some of its revolutionary members.
‘A bird in flight’: A Note on the Ancient Origins of Kites

Verity Limond retraces the invention and uses of kites, from ancient China to today.
The Past Unveiled: A New Perspective on Ancient Phenomena and Myths through Poor Sight

Legends surrounding creatures lurking in the depths of the Earth’s waters have captivated human interest for centuries. However, there may be a more physiological answer to their supposed sightings, as Dalma Roman investigates.
The Language of Love – Can Anyone Understand it?

From fans to flowers, expressions of desire through symbolic means has undergone various transformations throughout European history. Megan Crutchley examines the rise and fall of such devices and their use in the pursuit of love.
The Lowell Observatory: From Pioneers to Pluto

Becoming the first internationally recognised “Dark Sky City” due to efforts to reduce light pollution, Flagstaff, Arizona is also home to the Lowell Observatory, famed not least for its discovery of Pluto. Sam Marks discusses the scientific endeavours which led to this astronomical breakthrough.
The Unique Status of Vestal Virgins in Roman Society

The Vestal Virgins occupied a position in ancient Roman society which afforded them certain legal and societal rights. However, the role also came with strict rules which, if broken, would be met with deadly punishment as Fiona MacRae discusses.