A Seat At The Table

A Seat At The Table with Dr Helen King


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Welcome back to A Seat At The Table with Spare Ribs Club!


In this podcast, creator of Spare Ribs Club Alex Holker talks to guests about their dream feminist dinner party. From their 3 feminist guests, the 3 tunes that will be on repeat all evening, and the 3 courses being served, this podcast brings together conversations around feminism, music and food.


In this episode, Alex talks to Dr Helen King. Helen is Professor Emerita of Classical Studies at the Open University with an academic career spanning over two decades. Her work delves into the intersections of history, medicine, and gender. Helen’s upcoming book, Immaculate Forms: Uncovering the History of Women's Bodies, is a groundbreaking exploration of how women's bodies have been perceived throughout history. Helen’s interdisciplinary work bridges the gap between health professionals and historians, shedding light on how historical perspectives can enrich our understanding of modern medical practices. Her influence extends beyond academia, with her public engagement efforts including storytelling, educational events, and insightful blogging on topics ranging from ancient Greek medicine to the history of pain.


We discuss Helen's dream feminist dinner party, starting with a fabulous guest list; 12th century medical practitioner Trota of Salerno, 19th century nurse and social reformer Florence Nightingale, and preacher and suffragist Maude Royden. Set against a soundtrack of Hildegard of Bingen, Florence Price and Fleur Stevenson, they start with figs and ricotta, followed by seven hour slow-roasted lamb with roasted vegetables, and finishing with fresh seasonal fruit and marrons glacés, served with a Tokaji dessert wine. We discuss how her feminism intersects with women's health, ancient medical history, and her Christianity.

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A Seat At The TableBy Alexandra Holker