Freaks of History

Disability studies have long been the domain

of medical and pedagogical academics.

However, in recent years, the subject has

outgrown its clinical origins. In Freaks of History,

James MacDonald presents two dramatic

explorations of disability within the wider themes

of sexuality, gender, foreignness, and the Other.

Originally directed by Martin Harvey and performed

by undergraduate students at the University

of Exeter, Wellclose Square and Unsex Me Here

analyse cultural marginalization against the

backdrop of infamous historical events.

MacDonald, who has cerebral palsy, recognises

that disability narratives are rarely written by

and for disabled people. Therefore, his plays,

accompanied by critical essays and director’s

notes, are a welcome addition to the emerging

discourse of Crip Theory, and essential reading for

disability students and academics alike.