Behind The Lines with Arthur Snell Fantastic Kingdom: Dr Helene von Bismarck on her latest book, and Britain
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Apr 5, 2026 Helena (Dr Helene) von Bismarck, historian, writer and commentator on British history and foreign policy, offers a stranger's view of Britain. She discusses how domestic institutions shape international behaviour. She explores island identity, Brexit and polarization. She examines migration, multicultural symbols and threats to public institutions and soft power.
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How Brexit Pulled A Historian Into Contemporary Britain
- Helene described becoming involved in UK debates after the Brexit referendum and interviewing nearly 50 people for the book.
- She spent years in archives then moved into present-day briefings, meeting ministers, clergy and devolved officials to build empathy and access.
British Insularity Is A Productive Contradiction
- Britain is both insular and global at once, and that contradiction shapes its politics and identity.
- Helene von Bismarck argues the island myth is romanticised truth: geography makes Britain separate yet closely tied to Europe, influencing debates like Brexit.
Immigration Rhetoric Has Become Detached From Facts
- Britain remains highly diverse and multicultural but the immigration debate has become dehumanising and detached from facts.
- Von Bismarck notes net immigration fell after 2024, yet rhetoric intensified, attacking minorities already integrated into British life.
