Merve Emre

Agnes Arnold-Forster is a writer and historian whose book delves into the intricate emotions of nostalgia, exploring its psychological and societal implications. Joined by Merve Emre, a scholar and critic, they discuss how nostalgia has evolved from a diagnosed condition to a complex emotion. The conversation highlights nostalgia's double-edged nature, its political uses, and how it shapes cultural narratives. They also examine its potential dangers, especially concerning marginalized communities, emphasizing the need to understand its role in contemporary society.

Merve Emre, an acclaimed writer and expert on Virginia Woolf and the Bloomsbury Group, dives deep into the fascinating lives of sisters Vanessa Bell and Virginia Woolf. They discuss how family tragedies, like the death of their brother Toby, propelled their artistic paths and shaped the Bloomsbury Group. Emre illuminates their collaborative spirits, contrasting their artistic styles and influences. The conversation also touches on the sisters' break from Victorian norms, their shared struggles, and their lasting impact on the modernist movement and women's representation in art.

In this insightful discussion, historian Hannah Dawson, an expert on feminist thought, is joined by literary critic Merve Emre. They explore the impressive six-century journey of feminist writing, from Christine de Pizan's visionary works to the empowering messages of lesser-known figures like Qiu Jin. The conversation dives into the complexities of curating feminist anthologies, challenges in the beauty industry, and the ongoing evolution of feminist theory. They advocate for inclusivity in literary representation and confront the dual burdens of activism and societal expectations on women.