Muses

Available for 184 days

For two decades, Great Lives on BBC Radio 4 and 4 Extra 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. Now 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. Additional voices from Joshua Higgott Producer: Richard Morris A BBC Studios production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in August 2021.