Rosemary Hill

Tom Crewe, Patricia Lockwood, Deborah Friedell, John Lanchester, and Rosemary Hill discuss their favorite pieces from the LRB archive, including Terry Castle's analysis of Jane Austen's letters and Alan Bennett's nuanced portrayal of Philip Larkin. Topics covered include controversial literature, bestiality in poetry, and mistaken identity at a party.

Colin Burrow, a literary scholar, and Rosemary Hill, an expert in history and literature, discuss Thackeray's 'Vanity Fair' and its sharp critique of Regency England. They explore Thackeray's personal struggles that shaped his narrative style. The podcast delves into the significance of clothing, class dynamics, and how characters like Becky Sharp navigate a turbulent society. The influence of the Battle of Waterloo is examined, shedding light on the changing social landscape and Thackeray's keen observations of moral complexities and ambition.

Colin Burrow, a Fellow at All Souls College, and Rosemary Hill, a contributing editor at the LRB, delve into Thackeray's 'Vanity Fair.' They explore the novel's intricate satire of Regency England through the lens of fashion, personal ambitions, and social climbing. The guests discuss the complexities of characters like Becky Sharp and consider the significance of the Battle of Waterloo in shaping the narrative. Their conversation unveils how Thackeray's childhood experiences influenced his depiction of fractured families and societal shifts.

Rosemary Hill, a contributing editor at the London Review of Books and author known for her works on Pugin and Stonehenge, reminisces about the rise and fall of department stores. She highlights their past as vital spaces for women seeking autonomy and community. Hill shares her personal experiences, including a memorable holiday season at Selfridge's. The conversation touches on the architectural grandeur of these stores, their decline in the face of modern retail, and the cultural void left by their closures in urban settings.

Rosemary Hill, an architecture reviewer, discusses collaborative architecture from 1530-1830, highlighting architecture as a social endeavor with big egos and unexpected outcomes. She explores the evolution of Gothic architecture, Tudor influence, and the impact of political and religious upheavals on architectural development.