3: Gender on the Discworld (Affirmations on a Postcard from Scritz)

May 24, 2025

Dive into a whimsical exploration of gender in Terry Pratchett's Discworld! The hosts tackle pressing issues around trans rights, while celebrating community activism amid adversity. They analyze gender roles through beloved characters, like Tiffany Aching, and the enchanting dynamics between wizards and witches. With humor and insight, the discussion also covers the evolution of gender narratives and the importance of empathy in storytelling. It's a thought-provoking yet entertaining journey through the fantastical world and its reflections on real-life issues!

01:36:09

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ADVICE

Fund The Legal Fight For Trans Rights

Donate to the Good Law Project's trans rights crowdfunder if you can afford it.
Joanna Hagan urges funding the legal challenge to the Supreme Court ruling on trans rights in the UK.

question_answer

ANECDOTE

Concert Solidarity Brought Joy And Healing

Joanna Hagan describes the healing power of a Grace Petrie gig and communal shouting for trans rights.
She says being in that room with people loudly affirming trans rights brought intense joy and healing.

insights

INSIGHT

Discworld Blurs Witch And Wizard Roles

Joanna Hagan highlights Escarina and Geoffrey as examples of Discworld magic users who sit outside strict gender roles.
She quotes Geoffrey's line as a concise non-binary statement of identity and belonging.

Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode

Advocating for Trans Rights Amidst Legal Setbacks

01:46 • 2min

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Celebrating Community and Activism in the Face of Adversity

03:27 • 2min

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Gender and Magic in Discworld

05:05 • 16min

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Exploring Gender Roles in Discworld

21:19 • 11min

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Exploring Connections and Affirmations in Discworld

31:57 • 4min

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Exploring Gender and Identity in Discworld

35:28 • 16min

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Exploring Gender Roles and Identity

51:55 • 6min

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Gender Dynamics in Fantasy Literature

57:49 • 15min

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Exploring Accents and Gender in Fantasy Narratives

01:12:30 • 2min

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Evolving Gender Narratives in Pratchett's Works

01:14:24 • 15min

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Empowering Gender Dialogues in Discworld

01:29:21 • 3min

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Exploring Gender in Discworld

01:32:30 • 4min

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Tiffany Aching's Guide to Being a Witch

In Terry Pratchett's "Raising Steam", the Discworld undergoes a revolutionary transformation with the advent of the steam engine, spearheaded by Moist von Lipwig. As the railway expands across the land, connecting distant cities and transforming trade, it also sparks resistance from traditionalists and those threatened by progress. Amidst political intrigue and technological innovation, Moist must navigate the challenges of managing the railway while confronting those who seek to derail its progress. "Raising Steam" explores themes of innovation, tradition, and the transformative power of technology.

Monstrous Regiment

Terry Pratchett

In "Monstrous Regiment," Polly Perks disguises herself as a boy and enlists in the Borogravian army to find her missing brother, Paul. She quickly discovers that she is not the only one with a secret, as many of her fellow recruits are also women in disguise. Together, they must navigate the absurdities and dangers of war while challenging the strict gender roles of their society. "Monstrous Regiment" is a satirical exploration of gender, war, and identity, and examines the societal pressures that force individuals to conform to traditional roles.

The Magic of Terry Pratchett

Marc Burrows

Soul Music

Terry Pratchett

In this 16th novel of the Discworld series and the third in the Death sub-series, Terry Pratchett brings rock and roll music to the magical world of Discworld. The story follows Imp y Celyn, a young musician who becomes a rock star with his enchanted guitar, producing 'Music with Rocks In.' Meanwhile, Death takes a sabbatical due to grief over the deaths of his adopted daughter Ysabell and her husband Mort, forcing their daughter Susan to take on his duties. The novel satirizes the music industry, fame, and the influence of music on people's lives, blending Pratchett's signature wit, satire, and fantasy elements.

The Fifth Elephant

Terry Pratchett

Terry Pratchett's "The Fifth Elephant" is a Discworld novel featuring Commander Sam Vimes of the Ankh-Morpork City Watch. The story involves a diplomatic mission to the distant country of Uberwald, where Vimes must navigate political intrigue and uncover a conspiracy. Pratchett's signature wit and satire are on full display, blending humor with social commentary. The novel explores themes of justice, prejudice, and the complexities of international relations within the fantastical setting of the Discworld. Vimes's character development and the exploration of his personal life add depth to the narrative.

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I Shall Wear Midnight

Terry Pratchett

'I Shall Wear Midnight' is the fourth book in Terry Pratchett's Tiffany Aching series, set in the Discworld. Tiffany, now a young witch, faces new challenges as she balances her duties to the Chalk and the wider world. The story delves into themes of responsibility, prejudice, and the power of standing up for what is right. Tiffany confronts a dangerous and manipulative figure who incites fear and division among the people. With the help of the Nac Mac Feegle and her own growing wisdom, she must protect her community and uphold the traditions of witchcraft. The novel blends humor and poignant moments, exploring the complexities of morality and the importance of empathy.

The Shepherd's Crown

Paul Kidby

Manuel Viciano Delibano

Terry Pratchett

Laura Ellen Andersen

In 'The Shepherd's Crown', Tiffany Aching must rally the witches to defend against an elven invasion. This novel marks a time of endings and beginnings, as Tiffany navigates her role in protecting her land. The story explores themes of courage, humility, and the power of friendship and community.

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• Mentioned in 265 episodes

The Lord of the Rings

J.R.R Tolkien

The Lord of the Rings, written by J.R. R. Tolkien, is an epic high fantasy novel set in Middle-earth. The story follows Frodo Baggins, a hobbit who inherits the One Ring from his uncle Bilbo. The Ring, forged by Sauron, holds the power to control all other Rings of Power and must be destroyed in the fires of Mount Doom to prevent Sauron's return. Frodo is joined by a fellowship of other characters, including Gandalf the Grey, Samwise Gamgee, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, and Boromir, as they embark on a dangerous quest across Middle-earth. The novel explores themes of good vs. evil, the corrupting influence of power, and the struggle between fate and free will.

Equal Rites

Terry Pratchett

Terry Pratchett's "Equal Rites" is a Discworld novel that features Eskarina Smith, the first female wizard in the patriarchal wizarding society of Unseen University. The novel explores themes of gender equality, prejudice, and the power of belief. Pratchett's signature wit and satire are on full display, as he tackles complex social issues with humor and intelligence. The novel's exploration of societal norms and expectations is a central theme. The novel's enduring appeal stems from its blend of humor, fantasy, and social commentary.

The Truth Shall Make Ye Fret is a podcast in which your hosts, Joanna Hagan and Francine Carrel are flitting to and from the Discworld like confused Chelonauts.

This month, we’re back on the Disc to explore gender and celebrate the Glorious 25th of May! VIDEO VERSION: https://youtu.be/OXJYfghjUDA

SHEPHERD'S CROWN MENTIONED SPORADICALLY from 00:07:40 UNTIL 00:33:05. No story-breaking spoilers but purists should skip this section.

Gender? I Hardly Know ‘er!

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