Abstract
Hysteria, derived from the Ancient Greek term for uterus, is an antiquated medical diagnosis describing “a psychological disorder of converting stress into physical or emotional symptoms”. The study of hysteria was popularised in nineteenth century Europe through the clinical work of Charcot at La Salpêtrière hospital. Using photography, the diagnosis of his female patients was presented as visually stimulating spectacles for a predominantly male audience. These concepts influenced the public imagination, reinforced by an authoritative, medical gaze as a “scientific truth”. This embedded constraining stereotypes of femininity and womanhood, limiting the treatment options available to vulnerable patients.
To challenge my own male perspective and offer a more supportive gaze, I wrote an independent literature review and artwork analysis of hysteria and the discourse between visual media and medical practice as a vehicle to examine shifting ideas around femaleness, sexuality, and mental health.
Concentrating on nineteenth century photography, surrealist interpretations, and contemporary art, this contextual approach to the Art and Medicine SSC resulted in a greater understanding of the influence visual art plays in the social and psychological values of patients and medical practitioners. Through this enhanced awareness, improvements in female mental healthcare, focusing on empathy and understanding, can be achieved.
Nicola Claire Hood Memorial Award 