Introduction

In a special episode recorded in front of a live audience, Helen and David talk to Hilary Mantel about power, monarchy and political intrigue. From the Tudors to the present, from Henry VIII to Boris Johnson, from Thomas Cromwell to Dominic Cummings. A fascinating insight into politics and the writer’s imagination, from one of the greatest modern novelists.

Mentioned in this Episode: 

• Mantel Pieces, a new collection of Hilary’s LRB essays
• ‘Royal Bodies’ (from 2013)
• The Wolf Hall trilogy
• A Place of Greater Safety 
• David and Helen on Hilary Mantel (from April 2020)

And as ever, recommended reading curated by our friends at the LRB can be found here: lrb.co.uk/talking