Francesca Peacock

Flora Carr, a debut novelist, enchants listeners with her reimagining of Mary, Queen of Scots in her novel, The Tower. She passionately discusses the often-overlooked narratives of women in history, focusing on Mary's imprisonment at Lochleven Castle. Historian Francesca Peacock adds depth by exploring the complexities of female sexuality and the intricate relationships among women confined with the Queen. Their conversation sheds light on how fiction can illuminate past injustices, advocating for a greater recognition of women's stories in literature and history.

Francesca Peacock, a journalist and author, joins historian Helen Carr to shed light on Margaret Cavendish, a groundbreaking 17th-century writer. They explore Cavendish’s solitude and struggles during the English Civil War, her unique marriage that empowered her writing, and her complex legacy as a proto-science fiction author. The duo highlights how Cavendish defied gender norms through her eclectic works, inviting listeners to appreciate her vision and impact on women's literature and modern thought.

Francesca Peacock discusses Margaret Cavendish, a feminist writer ahead of her time, and challenges the misconceptions surrounding her. They delve into her unique perspective, the impact of the English civil war, her unconventional marriage, and her memorable visit to the Royal Society. The podcast also highlights Francesca's book 'The Blazing World', a feminist utopian vision, and examines the posthumous reputation of a female writer.