In Our Time
Benjamin Disraeli
Oct 17, 2024
Lawrence Goldman, an Emeritus Fellow in History at Oxford, Emily Jones, a Modern British History lecturer at Manchester, and Daisy Hay, a Professor of English Literature, delve into the life of Benjamin Disraeli. They discuss his dual role as Prime Minister and novelist, his contributions to One Nation Conservatism, and the societal themes in his novel 'Sybil.' The trio also explores Disraeli's complex identity, his bond with Queen Victoria, and his long-lasting impact on British politics and literature.
51:21
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Disraeli's unique background and early education, including his baptism, were pivotal in shaping his political career and public persona.
- His political ideology emerged during a tumultuous time, marked by his advocacy for the Protectionist movement and critique of the Whigs.
Deep dives
Benjamin Disraeli's Early Life and Education
Benjamin Disraeli was born into a literary environment, nurtured by his father, Isaac Disraeli, a bookish figure in London. His early education was marked by a series of unsatisfactory school experiences, including attending a nonconformist boarding school where he was unhappy and bullied. Following his baptism into the Anglican Church, he was transferred to an Anglican school, which became crucial for his future political career as it enabled him to enter Parliament. Despite a lack of traditional formal education, Disraeli's voracious reading in his father's library equipped him with a rich literary understanding, significantly influencing his future political and literary endeavors.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
