Guests Charles King, author of 'Every Valley: The Story of Handel’s Messiah,' and Elinor Evans, an expert on Handel, dive into the intriguing backstory of this iconic piece. They discuss how shifting politics, scandals in London's West End, and the transatlantic slave trade played surprising roles in its creation. King shares insights into the oratorio's innovative techniques, while Evans highlights its lasting cultural resonance despite its tumultuous origins. Together, they illuminate the complex interplay between art and history surrounding Handel's timeless masterpiece.
