In this engaging discussion, host Matt Forde welcomes Afua Hirsch, a renowned writer and advocate, and Peter Frankopan, a historian and author. They dive into the scandalous life of Charles Dickens, exploring his tumultuous home life rife with extravagance, infidelity, and personal turmoil. The trio examines the contradictions of Dickens as both a literary genius and a flawed man, while also unpacking his profound influence on modern Christmas traditions. Listeners are sure to be captivated by the unexpected layers of this iconic figure's legacy.
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Dickens's Priorities After Train Crash
Charles Dickens, after surviving a train crash, prioritized protecting his reputation.
He ensured Ellen Ternan, his mistress, was escorted away before helping other passengers.
insights INSIGHT
The Dark Side of Genius
Dickens's dark side fueled his writing.
His inner torment may be inseparable from his literary genius, raising questions about the connection between toxicity and greatness.
insights INSIGHT
Dickens's Appeal
Dickens's prolific writing and focus on marginalized voices made him appealing.
He captured the struggles of the poor and unhappy, shifting focus away from elites and influencing how people viewed Victorian Britain.
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Our Mutual Friend, a novel by Charles Dickens, explores themes of wealth, poverty, and social class in Victorian London. The story revolves around the inheritance of a fortune left in the form of dead bodies found in the River Thames. Dickens satirizes the materialistic values of the wealthy elite and the struggles of the working class. The novel features a complex cast of characters, each grappling with their own moral dilemmas. Our Mutual Friend is a complex and multifaceted work, showcasing Dickens' skill in creating memorable characters and weaving together multiple storylines.
Listen for the Lie
Amy Tintero
1984
None
George Orwell
Published in 1949, '1984' is a cautionary tale by George Orwell that explores the dangers of totalitarianism. The novel is set in a dystopian future where the world is divided into three super-states, with the protagonist Winston Smith living in Oceania, ruled by the mysterious and omnipotent leader Big Brother. Winston works at the Ministry of Truth, where he rewrites historical records to conform to the Party's ever-changing narrative. He begins an illicit love affair with Julia and starts to rebel against the Party, but they are eventually caught and subjected to brutal torture and indoctrination. The novel highlights themes of government surveillance, manipulation of language and history, and the suppression of individual freedom and independent thought.
James
Percival Everett
Percival Everett's "James" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that reimagines the classic tale of Huckleberry Finn from the perspective of Jim. Everett's writing is both sharp and witty, blending humor and pathos to create a compelling narrative. The novel explores themes of race, freedom, and identity in a way that is both timely and timeless. Everett's unique voice and perspective offer a fresh take on a familiar story, challenging readers to reconsider their assumptions about race and American history. The novel's unexpected twists and turns keep readers engaged until the very end, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page is turned.
Peter and Afua go on the British Scandal podcast hosted by Matt Forde and Alice Levine to discuss the life and times of Charles Dickens. Behind the snowy scenes, jolly carols and festive cheer, the so-called “Father of Christmas” had a turbulent home life full of drinking, alleged extramarital relations and workplace fights. But can we truly call his life scandalous? Matt and Alice weigh in.
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Legacy 
