Red Medicine The Politics of Motherhood w/ Helen Charman
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Nov 12, 2024 Helen Charman, a Fellow at Clare College, University of Cambridge, discusses the multifaceted politics of motherhood. She explores how figures like Margaret Thatcher have influenced narratives around women's roles. The conversation dives into the portrayal of motherhood in pop culture, notably through 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer.' Shifting perceptions of single mothers highlight societal fears and the need for responsive reproductive healthcare. Charman critically examines the legacy of Thatcherism on female leadership and the complexities of care within feminist discourse.
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Shared Buffy Love
- Helen Charman and Sam Kelly bonded over watching Buffy.
- Charman's book opens with an essay about the show.
Politicized Motherhood
- Charman's personal experience with her single mum is highly politicized.
- Buffy's mum, Joyce, became intertwined with Charman's own mother.
Dual Mothering Roles
- Helen Charman noticed the dual mothering roles in her mum's life: at home and as a state employee.
- This mirrors a broader relationship between motherhood in the private and public spheres.
