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 bestselling historical novelist and Tudor historian, delves into the life of Jane Boleyn, revealing her not as a schemer but as a survivor amidst Henry VIII’s tyranny. She discusses how Victorian biases distorted Jane's reputation and explores the silences in history that fiction can fill. Gregory suggests Jane may have acted as a spy for Thomas Cromwell and highlights the importance of women's roles at court in managing power dynamics. Ultimately, she warns against the dangers of concentrated power in today’s politics, drawing parallels from Tudor history.

Philippa Gregory, a celebrated historian and author, dives deep into the life of Jane Boleyn, sister-in-law to Anne Boleyn, and her perilous existence in the Tudor court. They explore Jane's rise to prominence, role as a potential spy for Thomas Cromwell, and her complex involvement in royal scandals, including her testimony in the Anne of Cleves divorce. Philippa also discusses Jane's tragic end, her unlikely legacy, and reflects on the harsh realities of power and survival during a tyrannical reign.

Philippa Gregory, a best-selling historical novelist known for her works on the Tudor era, chats with Sam Leith about her new book, Boleyn Traitor. She aims to reexamine Jane Boleyn's misunderstood legacy, discussing her transformation from victim to political survivor. They explore Henry VIII's descent into tyranny, the political intricacies of Anne Boleyn, and how Tudor court rituals disguise ambition. Philippa also shares her methods of blending meticulous research with imaginative speculation, while revealing the contemporary echoes of Tudor tyranny in today's world.

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.