Something Understood

Original version

BBC Radio 4 FM

BBC Radio 4 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced BBC Home Service.

BBC Radio 4

Radio 4

Radio 4 (FM)

Religion & Ethics

Ethical and religious discussion that examines some of the larger questions of life

Ethical and religious discussion that examines some of the larger questions of life, taking a spiritual theme and exploring it through music, prose and poetry

BBC Radio 4 LW

Something Understood: The Annunciation

The Annunciation

BBC Radio 4 - Something Understood, The Annunciation

Mark Tully examines the importance of The Annunciation in the story of the birth of Jesus.

In the build-up to Christmas, Mark Tully considers the very first moment in the story of the Nativity, in a tale of angelic apparitions and maternal courage.

In conversation with former BBC Deputy Director General, the journalist and author, Mark Byford, Mark Tully asks why the story of the Angel Gabriel’s visit to Mary has become a neglected part of Jesus’ narrative. They discuss the literal and metaphorical importance of the conception of Christ, the idea of the Virgin Birth and the iconography of Mary. The programme draws on the poetry of Denise Levertov and Elizabeth Jennings and there is music from Sir John Tavener, Percy Grainger and Brazilian pop composer Milton Nascimento.

The readers are Jane Whittenshaw and David Holt.
Presenter: Mark Tully
Producer: Frank Stirling

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Something Understood

The Annunciation

Genres

Brand

BBC Radio 4 FM

About BBC Radio 4