John Bowen

David Dwan, a Professor of English Literature at Oxford, Lisa Mullen from Cambridge, and John Bowen from York dive deep into George Orwell's Nineteen Eighty-Four. They discuss the suffocating concepts of doublespeak and thoughtcrime, exploring how personal experiences influenced Orwell’s critique of totalitarianism. The conversation reveals Winston Smith's psychological turmoil and his desperate yearning for freedom. They also critique the proletariat's perceived apathy and examine the modern implications of Orwell's warnings about surveillance and language manipulation.

Alexandra Lewis, a lecturer in English and Creative Writing, Marianne Thormählen, a Professor Emerita in English Studies, and John Bowen, a Professor of Nineteenth-Century Literature, delve into Anne Brontë's groundbreaking novel, 'The Tenant of Wildfell Hall.' They discuss its contentious publication history and themes of male violence and autonomy. The guests explore Helen Graham's rebellious spirit, the impact of addiction, and the societal critiques inherent in the story. They also reflect on Anne's legacy and her literary significance alongside her sisters.

Literature experts David Bradshaw, John Bowen, and Ann Pasternak Slater discuss Evelyn Waugh's Decline and Fall, exploring themes of modernity, religion, and society. They delve into the novel's dark humor, satire, and influences, highlighting character development, societal critiques, and the author's unique writing style. The podcast provides insights into Waugh's early works, influences from literary giants, and the satirical targets in the novel, offering a fascinating analysis of Decline and Fall's enduring impact.