In this episode of the Wine Podcast, host Jane Anson speaks to best-selling author Petie Kladstrup, about her latest book, The Last Empress of France, which explores the life of Eugénie de Montijo, the wife of Napoleon III. The discussion delves into Eugénie's significant yet often overlooked contributions to French history, particularly in women's rights and fashion as a political tool. Petie shares insights into her collaborative writing process with Evelyne Resnick and reflects on the impact of wine culture in historical narratives. The conversation also touches on the importance of storytelling in preserving legacies, and how she feels looking back 25 years after the publication of her seminal book detailing the impact of World War II on French wine.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Eugénie de Montijo
03:59 Reflections on 'Wine and War' and Its Impact
06:52 Transitioning from Wine to Biography
09:59 The Collaborative Writing Process
12:48 Eugénie's Role in Women's Education
15:54 Fashion as a Political Tool
19:05 Eugénie's Influence on French Culture
21:41 Research Challenges in Historical Biography
24:43 Future Writing Aspirations
27:43 Personal Connections to Wine
30:45 Final Thoughts on Eugénie's Legacy
34:11 Introduction to P.T. Kladstrup and His Work
34:41 Exploring Themes in 'The Last Empress of France'
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