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Royal Weddings

Jonathan Freedland takes the long view of royal weddings, comparing the marriage between Prince William and Kate Middleton with the story of Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville.

Jonathan Freedland takes the long view of royal weddings, comparing the marriage between Prince William and Kate Middleton with the romance between King Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville who fell in love and married in the 15th century.

In 1464 Edward pursued and secretly married Elizabeth Woodville against the counsel of his royal advisors who were negotiating a dynastic union for the dashing young king. When word of the wedding got out it was billed as a marriage for love - a dramatic break with royal tradition. And eyebrows were also raised at Elizabeth's social status - her father was a member of the gentry rather than the aristocracy.

Jonathan is joined by veteran royal reporter James Whitaker, writer and commentator Peter York and columnist Polly Toynbee to discuss how so-called 'commoners' have won the hearts of royalty.

Producer: Paula McGinley.

Image: Edward IV and Elizabeth Woodville, circa 1470.

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30 minutes

Last on

Tue 22 Feb 2011 21:30
Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4

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Broadcasts

  • Tue 22 Feb 2011 09:00
    Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4 FM
  • Tue 22 Feb 2011 21:30
    Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4

Podcast

  • The Long View

    History series in which stories from the past shed light on current events