Helen Lewis: Great Wives

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Factual: Life Stories

Helen Lewis meets the life partners of history's most famous geniuses.

For two decades, Great Lives on Radio 4 has explored what it takes to change the world. But Helen Lewis wants to find out what it takes to live with someone who changes the world.

For two decades, Great Lives on Radio 4 has explored what it takes to change the world. But Helen Lewis wants to ask a different question: what does it take to live with someone who changes the world?

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Helen Lewis: Great Wives: Series 1: Muses

Muses

Series 1

BBC Radio 4 - Helen Lewis: Great Wives, Series 1, Muses

Helen Lewis introduces some iconic figures from history and looks at the influence of their less well-known life partners.

For two decades, Great Lives on Radio 4 has explored what it takes to change the world. But Helen Lewis wants to ask a different question: what does it take to live with someone who changes the world?

Behind the history of genius lies a second, hidden history: the stories of people who give geniuses the time they need to flourish. This series explores the many "supporting roles" needed to sustain an apparently "singular" genius.

In this episode Helen turns her attention to the role of the Muse as she meets many and various historical figures from Elizabeth Siddal to Dora Maar via Alice B Toklas.

Written by Helen Lewis with additional voices from Joshua Higgott
Producer: Richard Morris
Production Coordinator: Sarah Nicholls
Sound Design: Chris Maclean

A BBC Studios Production

Helen Lewis: Great Wives: Series 1

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