Literary Studies Seminar Series

This PhD thesis examines the life Francis Nicolas Rossi, a senior government official in early New South Wales, born French, of a noble Corsican family, who served the British Crown for more than 40 years before retiring to his country home in Goulburn. Rossi had a successful career, culminating in his appointment in 1825 as Superintendent of Police in NSW, an unusual appointment for a Frenchman at that time. Despite his success, he occupied an ambivalent position. Highly respected by successive Governors, he was also publicly distrusted and mocked because of his supposed unsuitability for office, alleged corruption and un-British values and beliefs. The same ambivalence existed in his private persona, for he was both intensely British but with the outlook, manners and lifestyle of a French aristocrat.

Neville Potter has an Honours degree in French from the ANU and his interests include British and Australian history in the 19th century, as well as French and Italian influences.

Students, staff, visitors and friends - all are welcome to attend!