Sir Simon Schama

Join historian Simon Schama, renowned for his captivating storytelling and deep insights, as he discusses his latest work on the Holocaust. He shares his powerful first impressions of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the shocking complicity across Europe, and the chilling indifference of citizens during the Nazi regime. Schama reflects on the incremental nature of evil and contrasts personal tales—including that of Anne Frank—with society's varied responses. He also highlights the importance of memory in preserving the truth and combating contemporary anti-Semitism.

In this engaging discussion, Sir Simon Schama, a world-renowned historian, reflects on the complexities of Jewish identity and historical memory amidst contemporary conflicts. He delves into the ongoing Israel-Hamas tensions, examining historical parallels and the impact of past persecution on present sentiments. Schama also critiques the portrayal of Jewish characters in Hollywood, highlighting the need for accurate representation. With insights into resilience and the emotional dilemmas faced by Jewish students, he urges a nuanced understanding of the Israeli-Palestinian discourse.

Join historian Simon Schama and novelist Tracey Chevalier as they passionately debate two titans of Dutch art: Rembrandt and Vermeer. Schama argues for Rembrandt’s raw emotional humanity and societal depth, while Chevalier admires Vermeer’s enchanting, dreamlike scenes. They dive into their contrasting artistic philosophies, exploring how personal struggles influenced Rembrandt's emotive works, compared to Vermeer’s magical compositions. The conversation extends to the significance of spirituality in their art and their legacies that continue to inspire.

In this engaging discussion, Simon Schama, a renowned historian and author, dives into his new book *Foreign Bodies*, exploring the fraught relationship between pandemics and human resilience. He reflects on the lessons learned from past health crises and the role of nationalism, using historical context to highlight current vaccine distribution challenges. Schama shares poignant stories of activists and pioneers who shaped the fight against outbreaks, illustrating humanity's complex dance with contagion and science throughout the ages.

Historian Simon Schama passionately defends Rembrandt, portraying him as the embodiment of humanity's raw emotional tapestry. He argues that Rembrandt's work transcends formal beauty, offering a visceral exploration of life. In contrast, author Tracey Chevalier champions Vermeer, emphasizing his magical, serene paintings that invite viewer interpretation. Chevalier reveals her lifelong obsession with Vermeer’s 'Girl with a Pearl Earring,' highlighting the intriguing mystery of his subjects. Together, they unravel the complexities and legacies of these two Dutch titans.