Katherine Astbury

Join Professor Katherine Astbury, an expert in Revolutionary France, and comedian Jen Brister for a lively discussion on Marie Antoinette. They delve into her lavish lifestyle, the origins of the infamous "let them eat cake" myth, and her complicated marriage to Louis XVI. The guests explore her role as a cultural patron, her intriguing relationships, and the notorious Diamond Necklace scandal. With sharp humor, they examine how propaganda shaped her reputation and her tragic fate during the Revolution.

Greg Jenner is joined in the 18th century by historian Professor Katherine Astbury and comedian Jen Brister to learn about French queen Marie Antoinette.Born an Austrian princess, Marie Antoinette went on to be the last queen of France before the Revolution and the abolition of the monarchy. She is famous now for saying "let them eat cake", for her love of fashion, and her supposedly extravagant spending at a time when ordinary people in France were going hungry. But how true are any of these stories, and where did these myths about her originate?In this episode, we look at Marie Antoinette’s Austrian childhood and overbearing mother, her marriage to Louis XVI and time as queen of France, and the hatred directed at her by the revolutionaries. Along the way we take in her involvement in politics, her love of the theatre, and her possible Swedish sweetheart.This is a radio edit of the original podcast episode. For the full-length version, please look further back in the feed.Hosted by: Greg Jenner Research by: Charlotte Emily Edgeshaw Written by: Charlotte Emily Edgeshaw, Emmie Rose Price-Goodfellow, Emma Nagouse, and Greg Jenner Produced by: Emmie Rose Price-Goodfellow and Greg Jenner Audio Producer: Steve Hankey Production Coordinator: Gill Huggett Senior Producer: Emma Nagouse Executive Editor: Philip Sellars

Michael Rowe, a Reader in European History, delves into Napoleon's post-exile power play. Katherine Astbury, a Professor of French Studies, highlights the complex political sentiments fueling his brief resurgence. Zack White, an Early Career Research Fellow, sheds light on military strategies that led to Napoleon’s decisive but ultimately futile campaign. They discuss the charisma behind his comeback, the intricate dynamics of coalition warfare, and how missteps at Waterloo sealed his fate, all while pondering the enduring legacy of his ambition.