Broad Street to Brideshead

Oxford Writers' House
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Join Oxford University student Nancy Gittus for a journey into the heart of a university and city that have shaped some of the world’s greatest literature. From the worried jottings of Samuel Johnson to the fiery sermons of John Donne, Nancy uncovers the way Oxford’s libraries, traditions, tutors, rivalries, and chance encounters left a lasting impression on generations of writers. 

Episodes

  1. NOV 30

    Episode Three: Evelyn Waugh

    Episode Three of Broad Street to Brideshead encounters the wit, satire, and University years of of Evelyn Waugh — novelist, convert, and chronicler of a vanishing world. We’re joined by acclaimed Waugh scholar and literary critic Dr Ann Pasternak Slater, formerly a Fellow and Tutor at St Anne's College, Oxford, who helps unravel the brilliance and contradictions of one of the 20th century’s sharpest pens. From acid social satire to aching nostalgia, from bohemian antics to Benedictine retreats, Waugh’s life was as complex and captivating as his prose. Together, we trace Waugh’s journey from undergraduate parodies of Hertford College life, to later visions both barbed and beatific.

    44 min

  2. NOV 9

    Episode Two: John Donne

    Episode Two of Broad Street to Brideshead turns its gaze to the metaphysical and the mortal with a rich exploration of John Donne — poet, preacher, and paradox in human form. We’re joined by distinguished Donne scholar Professor Peter McCullough, whose work uncovers the devotional depths and dazzling complexities of one of England’s most enigmatic writers. From forbidden love to fiery sermons, from courtly scandal to spiritual introspection, Donne’s life was as turbulent as his verse. Together, we learn how Donne wrestled with faith, family, and fame, whilst redefining what English poetry could be.

    45 min

  3. OCT 19

    Episode One: Samuel Johnson

    Episode One of Broad Street to Brideshead kicks off with a deep dive into the life and legacy of Samuel Johnson — the brilliant, bold, and often beleaguered mind behind the first great English Dictionary. We’re joined by renowned linguist Professor Lynda Mugglestone, Professor of the History of English at Oxford’s Pembroke College, to explore Johnson’s rise from a struggling Oxford student to a towering figure of 18th-century London. From poverty and perseverance to prose and prestige, we trace Dr. Johnson’s remarkable journey from Broad Street to literary immortality.

    55 min
  • 3 Episodes

About

Join Oxford University student Nancy Gittus for a journey into the heart of a university and city that have shaped some of the world’s greatest literature. From the worried jottings of Samuel Johnson to the fiery sermons of John Donne, Nancy uncovers the way Oxford’s libraries, traditions, tutors, rivalries, and chance encounters left a lasting impression on generations of writers. 

Information

  • Creator
    Oxford Writers' House
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    3
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Broad Street to Brideshead
  • Show Website
    Broad Street to Brideshead