Richard Whittington, thrice Lord Mayor of London, left his fortune to charity 600 years ago, founding Guildhall library, blending history with pantomime myths.
The exhibition holds the earliest recorded reference to Dick Whittington's story, a play from the early 1600s, showcasing how the myth evolved over time.
The mix of history and myth features early printed chapbooks and children's literature, illustrating the transformation of Richard Whittington’s legacy into a pantomime character.
Whittington’s contributions included public infrastructure and charitable endeavors, altering his narrative from a mere merchant to a celebrated cultural figure.
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