Catherine Fletcher

Author and historian Catherine Fletcher takes listeners on a journey through Florence's rich history, from its pre-Roman origins to the Medici family's influence. The podcast explores Florence's political rivalries, artistic flourishing, and resilience through turbulent times, highlighting its cultural heritage and lesser-known landmarks.

In this special episode of You’re Dead To Me, recorded in front of a live audience, Greg Jenner is joined by Professor Catherine Fletcher and comedian Dara Ó Briain to learn about Leonardo da Vinci.Leonardo lived from 1452 to 1519 during an era of plague and warfare across Western Europe. It was also the height of the Italian Renaissance.From mathematics to military maps, and some paintings which you may have heard of, Leonardo da Vinci did it all. But was he a generational genius or an "ideas man" who had a chronic inability to finish what he started?Research by Anna Nadine-Pike Written by Emma Nagouse and Greg Jenner Produced by Emma Nagouse and Greg Jenner Assistant Producer: Emmie Rose Price-Goodfellow Project Management: Isla Matthews Audio Producer: Steve Hankey The You're Dead To Me theme tune was performed by Charles Mutter and the BBC Concert OrchestraThe Athletic production for BBC Radio 4

In this live episode, Prof Catherine Fletcher and comedian Dara Ó Briain join to discuss Leonardo da Vinci and his life during the Italian Renaissance. They debate whether da Vinci was a genius or an "ideas man" who couldn't finish what he started. Topics include da Vinci's artistic skills, inventions, his fascination with anatomy, and his cautious approach to the church. The episode also includes trivia games and light-hearted banter. The hosts express gratitude and introduce a new podcast series called 'Witch with me'.

Catherine Fletcher, a Renaissance history expert, and Rachel Dinning, an arts advocate, dive into Michelangelo's extraordinary life. They discuss the significance of masterpieces like the statue of David and the Sistine Chapel's ceiling. Fletcher highlights Michelangelo's complex relationship with the Medici family and shares insights into his dual identity as a sculptor and painter. Listeners will also learn about the emotional depth of Michelangelo's personal life and the lasting impact of his work on both art and culture.

Catherine Fletcher, historian and author of books on Renaissance power, guides a dive into Lucrezia Borgia’s scandalous first marriage. Short scenes cover the lavish Vatican wedding, wartime separation, a contested annulment framed as impotence, lurid incest rumors, suspicious deaths, and the political fallout that reshaped reputations.