Empire 33. Lady Mary: Our Woman in Constantinople
17 snips
Feb 14, 2023 
Katie Hickman, a historian and travel writer known for her expertise on Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, explores the vibrant life of this pioneering figure. Lady Mary broke the mold in 18th-century society, becoming the first female travel writer and documenting her experiences in the Ottoman Empire. The discussion reveals her struggles with societal expectations, her insights on gender roles, and her groundbreaking work on smallpox inoculation. Hickman also highlights the complexities of Lady Mary's tumultuous legacy, including scandals and her fight for recognition.
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Earthquake Experiences
- William Durrumple describes the devastating impact of earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, recounting the historical destruction of Antioch and Takya.
- Anita Anand shares her experience covering the 2001 Gujarat earthquake, which profoundly impacted her career choice.
A Different Kind of Travel Writer
- This week's podcast features Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, a travel writer unlike the previous guest, Evliya Çelebi, whose stories were considered 'filthy'.
- Lady Mary's writings offer a different, less explicit perspective on travel.
Lady Mary's Early Life and Education
- Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, born into aristocracy, was self-taught due to the limited educational opportunities for women in the 18th century.
- She taught herself Latin and was oddly skilled in carving meat, a performative art in aristocratic households.
