We will explore the notion, and reality, of the exposure of the inner and outer human form, and the representational, visual and material cultures of the body. This was a formative (and even transformative) period for the visual and representational culture of  human corporeality, witnessing the watersheds of Renaissance and Enlightenment, challenges to long-held understandings of the body and, allegedly, both the creation of the modern 'self' and the eventual secularization of Western society.

Possible topics might include (but are not limited to):

• Dissection, the medical 'gaze' and medical illustration
• Corporeality and the flesh in the visual, written and performing arts
• The body in religious iconography, hagiography and religious performance
• Gesture, kinesics and the expression of emotions
• Corporal punishment and bodily shaming
• Clothing, garments and cosmetics and their significance

The symposium will be held immediately before the Society for the Social History of Medicine's annual conference 2010 (also at Durham University), to facilitate early career attendance at both events. It will be accompanied by an exhibition of original materials to be held at Palace Green Library, Durham University. Please see the website www.bodyondisplay.org.uk or email body.ondisplay@durham.ac.uk for more information.