Muriel Zagha

Penny Mordaunt, a former MP and author, discusses her motivation for writing about British traditions, linking them to national identity. Ceri Houlbrook, a folklorist, emphasizes how modern customs can be authentic and relevant. Sunder Katwala examines the role of rituals in shaping patriotism. Muriel Zagha reflects on the shared experience of queuing for the Queen's funeral as a communal ritual, while Dr. Uran Ferizi shares insights on Albanian traditions and identity. The conversation explores how traditions can unify communities and adapt to modernity.

Film critic Muriel Zagha joins the discussion, bringing her expertise in French cinema to explore the intertwining of film and French history. They delve into iconic films that depict critical moments like the Dreyfus Affair and the Massacre of St. Bartholomew's Day. Zagha highlights how various portrayals of figures like Joan of Arc influence collective memory. The conversation also addresses the challenges of adapting controversial narratives and the resilience of French cinema against Hollywood. Insights into cultural reflections make this a captivating dialogue.

Muriel Zagha, a writer and critic known for her insights into French culture, joins forces with Lisa Holdsworth, a TV scriptwriter highlighting class representation in media. Sociologist Sam Friedman examines the evolution of British elites, while Lord Willetts discusses class from economic and political angles. Finally, demographer Melinda Mills explores new research that links genetics to socioeconomic status. Together, they navigate the complexities of class identity in contemporary Britain, reflecting on personal narratives, cultural capital, and the gig economy.