Hysteria! – A Curious History of Mass Panic A talk for adults
Wednesbury Library, Wednesbury, WS10 9EH
Thursday 23rd April 2026
What makes whole communities believe the unbelievable? Why do fears spread, stories grow, and panic take hold?
Hysteria! is a fun, fascinating and entertaining historical talk exploring outbreaks of mass hysteria from around the world and across the centuries. From legendary tales of St George and the Dragon and medieval beliefs in monsters, to the English and Scottish witch trials, this lively session uncovers how fear, rumour and imagination have shaped history.
The talk also brings things right up to date, with a look at more recent moments of collective panic – including the great disappearing toilet roll phenomenon of the COVID pandemic.
Perfect for curious minds, history lovers and anyone who enjoys unusual stories, this engaging talk combines folklore, social history and humour to show that mass hysteria is far from a modern invention.
Suitable for adults.
Hysteria! is a fun, fascinating and entertaining historical talk exploring outbreaks of mass hysteria from around the world and across the centuries. From legendary tales of St George and the Dragon and medieval beliefs in monsters, to the English and Scottish witch trials, this lively session uncovers how fear, rumour and imagination have shaped history.
The talk also brings things right up to date, with a look at more recent moments of collective panic – including the great disappearing toilet roll phenomenon of the COVID pandemic.
Perfect for curious minds, history lovers and anyone who enjoys unusual stories, this engaging talk combines folklore, social history and humour to show that mass hysteria is far from a modern invention.
Suitable for adults.
