The LRB Podcast
‘The Cleverest Woman in England’
Sep 11, 2024
Mary Beard, a renowned classicist and public intellectual, dives into the extraordinary life of Jane Ellen Harrison, Britain’s first female career academic. They discuss Harrison's legacy, her cunning ability to shape her own narrative, and the hurdles women face in academia. Beard also reflects on the complexities of writing Harrison's biography and how these challenges highlight the broader fight for women's rights in education. Expect a lively examination of history, gender dynamics, and the importance of self-perception in empowering future generations.
40:26
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Quick takeaways
- Jane Ellen Harrison's journey represents the struggle and triumph of women seeking recognition in male-dominated academia.
- The complexities of writing biographies highlight the challenges in reconstructing the lives of historically marginalized figures like Harrison.
Deep dives
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The podcast introduces a new Hulu series titled 'How to Die Alone,' featuring Natasha Rothwell playing the character Melissa. The narrative focuses on Melissa's transformation following a near-death experience that prompts her to reflect on her life and realize that she has never truly lived. This journey encapsulates the struggle of awakening to life and self-discovery, as Melissa confronts the reality of her previous existence. The show invites viewers to explore the profound question of what it means to live fully.
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