Paxton, Naomi (2019) Suffragette Judy: Punch and Judy at Suffrage Fairs and Exhibitions in Edwardian London. In: Women and Puppetry: Critical and Historical Investigations. Routledge, London, pp. 126-140. ISBN 9781315225999

Abstract

This chapter explores the phenomenon of Punch and Judy shows at suffrage exhibitions in Edwardian Britain. Drawing on examples of other entertainments at such events, this chapter considers the content and context of these shows within the wider performative presentation of violence and politicized female bodies by both militant and nonmilitant organizations in this period. The role of male supporters for Votes for Women in subverting the tropes of the traditional puppet show is contrasted with current debates within the Punch and Judy community around the concerns of feminist campaigners and the portrayal of domestic violence as entertainment.