The Rest Is History 76. Statues: Trafalgar Square
Jul 19, 2021
Join Tom and Dominic on a historical walking tour of Trafalgar Square, where they uncover the intriguing stories behind its famous statues. They tackle the cultural significance of figures like Nelson and Charles I, while also diving into the debates surrounding public monuments and societal values. With humor, they discuss the extravagant breakfast of the Duke of Wellington and the complexities of memorializing historical figures. The conversation navigates the intersection of history and modern perspectives, making for an enlightening and entertaining exploration.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Charles I Statue
- Charles I's statue, London's oldest bronze, was initially for a private garden.
- Parliament ordered its destruction during the Civil War, but it was hidden and later reinstated.
Roman Influence
- James II's Roman attire reflects a broader trend of emulating Roman memorialization practices.
- Statues of rulers and great men were common in Rome, unlike the graven-image-averse Middle Ages.
Monarchical Symbolism
- James II, despite being ousted in 1688, has a statue that highlights the symbolic power of monuments.
- 17th-century statues represented not just individuals, but the concept of monarchy itself.