Episode 1
4 Extra Debut. Ninth-century British Pope John was revealed to be Joan when she gave birth in public view, scandalising all of Rome. But did Joan really exist?
Well known for his histories of Norman Sicily, Venice, the Byzantine Empire and the Mediterranean, John Julius Norwich has now turned his attention to the oldest continuing institution in the world, tracing the papal line down the centuries from St Peter himself - traditionally (though by no means historically) the first pope - to the present day. Of the 280-odd holders of the supreme office, some have unquestionably been saints; others have wallowed in unspeakable iniquity.
John Julius Norwich begins reading The Popes today in suitably sensational fashion, with a 9th century scandal, believed for several centuries and doubted for as many again. The pope reputed to have given birth on a Roman street, who inspired a bizarre and unlikely ritual which was inflicted on future pontiffs to ensure their gender was male... meet Pope Joan.
Producer: David Roper
A Heavy Entertainment production for 麻豆社 Radio 4.
Last on
More episodes
Previous
You are at the first episode
Broadcasts
Mon 21 Mar 2011 09:45麻豆社 Radio 4 FM- Tue 22 Mar 2011 00:30麻豆社 Radio 4
- Mon 7 Mar 2016 14:45麻豆社 Radio 4 Extra
- Tue 8 Mar 2016 02:45麻豆社 Radio 4 Extra
Listen to more Audio Books
Including My Sister The Serial Killer, Queenie, The Flatshare and more.
Opening Lines
John Yorke unpacks the themes behind the stories in Radio 4's weekend afternoon dramas.
Sample our books and authors Clip Collection
Interviews, previews and reviews
Subscribe to the Short stories podcast
Featuring the best stories from the UK's finest writers
How many of these 100 Novels have you read?
After a passionate debate, our panel has come up with this surprising literary selection.
Finding Your Story
Ten remarkable novels about identity: Which one will help you discover yourself?
麻豆社 Arts: Books
Celebrating reading and the 100 novels that have shaped our world.