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Intelligence Squared
Philippa Gregory and Tracy Chevalier on Weaving the Story into Historical Fiction, Part One
Sep 30, 2024
Philippa Gregory, a celebrated author of historical fiction known for works like The Other Boleyn Girl, joins fellow acclaimed writer Tracy Chevalier, famous for Girl with a Pearl Earring. They discuss the art of weaving history into narratives, emphasizing the resilience of women through the ages. Tracy introduces her upcoming novel, The Glassmaker, highlighting themes of craftsmanship and perseverance, while Philippa shares insights from her study, Normal Women, focusing on the evolution of women's roles in England over 900 years.
40:31
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Quick takeaways
- Philippa Gregory's 'Normal Women' highlights the resilience of ordinary women in history, challenging the focus on only notable figures.
- Tracy Chevalier emphasizes the role of meticulous research in historical fiction to craft authentic narratives that resonate with readers.
Deep dives
The Significance of Women in History
The discussion emphasizes the often overlooked contributions of women throughout history, particularly in England. Philippa Gregory’s book, 'Normal Women,' seeks to highlight the lives of ordinary women who have shown remarkable strength and resilience, contrasting the mainstream narrative that focuses on notable figures. She conducted extensive research spanning nearly a millennium, analyzing historical records to uncover the realities faced by women, instead of just the well-known stories. Gregory argues that understanding the histories of these 'normal women' is vital for achieving true gender equality and enhancing our perception of women's roles over time.
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