Bernardine Wall, a 20-year-old English student at Cambridge

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Memory Lane

Bernardine Wall, a 20-year-old English student at Cambridge

Bernardine Wall, a 20-year-old English student at Cambridge. In the witness box, she said she had read both the expurgated and the whole versions of Chatterley and much preferred the latter, which had more realistically (she felt) evoked relations between men and women. It wasn t the most exciting moment in the witness box, but it brought something important to the trial - the spectacle of a young woman who had read the dirty book and about whom the jury might ask, " Has she been depraved and corrupted?" before looking at her calm, sweet, clever face and concluding: perhaps not. Was this the moment whenthe British decided they were no longer susceptible to depravity and corruption? And that they no longer needed moral guardians to tell them what they could do, or think, or read, or say out loud?
31st October 1960

Staff
Daily Mirror
Mirrorpix
M 7938

Media ID 21655176

© Mirrorpix

Book Court Female Glass Lawyer Pearls Swearing Prosecution Swear Vulgar

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in history, featuring Bernardine Wall, a 20-year-old English student at Cambridge. In the midst of a prosecution trial, she confidently takes her place in the witness box. The focus of her testimony? Her preference for the unexpurgated version of D. H. Lawrence's controversial novel, "Lady Chatterley's Lover". Bernardine's calm and sweet demeanor contrasts with society's expectations surrounding such explicit literature. As she eloquently expresses her belief that the uncensored edition portrays more realistic relationships between men and women, one cannot help but wonder: has this young woman been depraved and corrupted by reading this so-called "dirty book"? The jury is left to ponder this question as they gaze upon Bernardine's intelligent face framed by pearls and a gentle smile. This pivotal moment raises larger societal questions: Are the British people no longer susceptible to moral corruption? Do they require moral guardians to dictate their thoughts, actions, or literary choices? Dated October 31st, 1960, this photograph encapsulates an era when traditional values clashed with evolving social norms. It serves as a reminder that individuals like Bernardine Wall played an essential role in challenging established beliefs and paving the way for greater personal freedom. As we reflect on this image from Memory Lane Prints, it sparks contemplation about our own journey towards self-determination and reminds us of those who fearlessly stood up against censorship in pursuit of intellectual emancipation.

MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools

FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!

SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you

* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.