Philippa Gregory

Explore the forgotten stories of medieval women, from alewives to noble ladies and nuns. Philippa Gregory sheds light on their overlooked roles and contributions. The episode challenges biases in historical narratives and discusses women's defiance against societal norms. It also delves into gender dynamics, legal constraints, women's spiritual authority, and sexuality in medieval times.

Philippa Gregory, a powerhouse in historical fiction celebrated for her works like "The Other Boleyn Girl," teams up with Tracy Chevalier, known for "Girl with a Pearl Earring." They dive into the importance of historical accuracy, especially in women's narratives, urging for authentic storytelling. The conversation touches on the evolution of women's roles in glassmaking in Murano and the struggles depicted in Mary Edwards’ story. Their insights into research and crafting narratives reflect the blend of truth and creativity in their writing.

Philippa Gregory, best-selling author renowned for her historical novels, and Tracy Chevalier, celebrated for her works like 'Girl with a Pearl Earring,' explore the intricate crafting of historical fiction. They delve into the balance of fact and imagination, emphasizing the importance of giving voice to overlooked women's stories. Tracy shares insights on her upcoming novel, 'The Glassmaker', while Philippa discusses her groundbreaking work, 'Normal Women', which reexamines women's histories in England. Their engaging dialogue illuminates the challenges and artistry of bringing the past to life.

Novelist Philippa Gregory explores 900 years of women's history, from the Norman invasion to securing the right to vote. She discusses the impact of global conflicts, job market, deadly diseases, and societal perceptions on women's lives. Topics include inheritance rights, women's roles in the 1500s, changing views of women, early marriage manuals, and women's relationships throughout history.

The podcast features Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Philippa Gregory, and Russell Watson. They discuss exploring, the unsung women of history, and Russell's transition from opera singer to mechanic. Plus, Reverend Kate Bottley shares her Inheritance Tracks.