Storytime for Grownups: Summer Session Episode Summary
Podcast Information
- Title: Storytime for Grownups
- Host: Faith Moore
- Episode: Summer Session: Pride and Prejudice as a Cinderella Narrative with Brigid Huey
- Release Date: June 23, 2025
- Description: Storytime for Grownups invites listeners to explore classic literature with an engaging twist. This summer, the podcast delves into the intersection of fairy tales and classic novels, offering insightful discussions and expert interviews.
Summer Session Kickoff
Faith Moore opens the episode by introducing the Summer Session, a special series running until September that shifts the podcast's focus to fairy tales and their influence on classic literature. This seasonal change allows listeners to engage with stories in a more academic yet enjoyable format, akin to a "college class... only fun."
"Class is in session." [00:00]
She briefly mentions her recent appearance on the Tune My Heart podcast, where she discussed the song "Love" from Cinderella, tying it into her book on Disney Princess symbolism. However, she emphasizes that the summer focus remains on original fairy tales rather than their modern adaptations.
Listener Letters and Reflections
Faith shares thoughtful feedback from listeners, highlighting the deep connections between fairy tales and broader storytelling elements:
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Alan Robison draws parallels between Cinderella and biblical stories, noting how elements like failed missions and unjust barriers echo themes from the Bible. (Timestamp: [10:06])
"The tale... the failed father figure... mirrors Jonah’s defiance and the necessity of atonement." [10:06]
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Debbie Rudin appreciates the nuanced portrayals in fairy tales, likening Cinderella's modest ask to Beauty’s request in Beauty and the Beast. (Timestamp: [15:22])
"When Cinderella asks her father for a trifle... it reminds me of Beauty and the Beast." [15:22]
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Tracy Shubin reflects on the relatable aspects of Cinderella characters, particularly the transformation and depth added by authors like Elizabeth Gaskell in Wives and Daughters. (Timestamp: [18:39])
"It is Cinderella, but she has taken the stepmother and stepsister and made them real and relatable." [18:39]
Faith responds by affirming the foundational role of fairy tales in storytelling, blending ancient pagan roots with Christian elements introduced over centuries. She emphasizes that even modern narratives often trace their themes back to these timeless tales.
Interview with Brigid Huey
The core of the episode features an insightful conversation between Faith Moore and Brigid Huey, a novelist specializing in romance and literary variations of classic works.
Pride and Prejudice’s Enduring Appeal
Brigid Huey expresses her admiration for Pride and Prejudice, highlighting its rich character development and timeless themes:
"…the characters... they have faults and they are working through just like we all do." [15:59]
She emphasizes the relatability of Jane Austen’s characters, particularly the dynamic between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, which remains iconic.
Cinderella Elements in Pride and Prejudice
The discussion delves into how Pride and Prejudice mirrors the Cinderella narrative:
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Mr. Darcy as Prince Charming: Brigid compares Darcy to the quintessential fairy tale prince—wealthy, handsome, and ultimately transformative for Elizabeth.
"Mr. Darcy is prince Charming... he's the perfect guy." [34:32]
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Elizabeth Bennet as Cinderella: Elizabeth embodies the Cinderella archetype, navigating societal constraints and personal growth to achieve happiness.
"Elizabeth Bennet... embodies that Cinderella story." [36:00]
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Mrs. Bennet as the Wicked Stepmother: Although not a stepmother, Mrs. Bennet acts as an obstacle, favoring certain daughters and hindering Elizabeth’s pursuits.
"Mrs. Bennet does act as that mother figure that just gets in the way more than she actively tries to sabotage." [39:50]
Regency England’s Romanticization
Brigid discusses the allure of Regency England as depicted in Austen’s work, noting its romanticized portrayal stripped of harsher realities. This idealization provides a dreamy backdrop that continues to captivate modern audiences.
"This Regency era really appeals to us because we get the fairytale element of the pretty dresses and the handsome man without the realities that are still... different challenges now than then." [27:44]
Adaptations and Variations
The conversation transitions to film adaptations, particularly contrasting the Colin Firth version with the Keira Knightley adaptation. Brigid appreciates the authenticity of the former but acknowledges the aesthetic appeal of the latter.
"The Colin Firth is the one that is truest to the book." [22:08]
She also introduces her work on Pride and Prejudice variations—what-if stories that explore alternative scenarios within the beloved narrative.
"A variation is basically a what-if story." [50:46]
Her books, such as Interrupted Plans, A Chance Encounter in Pemberley Woods, and Spies of Our Acquaintance offer fresh perspectives while maintaining the essence of the original characters.
Recommendations for Fans
Brigid recommends several classics for fans of Pride and Prejudice seeking similar literary experiences:
- Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The House of the Seven Gables
- The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy, particularly the adaptation featuring Jane Seymour.
"It is so good and I love it... It's so great." [55:35]
Closing Remarks
Faith invites listeners to explore Brigid Huey’s works through links provided in the show notes and encourages engagement via the podcast's online community. She previews the return to regular episodes in September with a new book and thanks listeners for their continued support.
Notable Quotes:
- "We are here together now and I am so glad to be here with you." — Faith Moore [00:00]
- "Fairy tales are one of the essential building blocks for stories." — Faith Moore [10:06]
- "Mr. Darcy is prince Charming... he's the perfect guy." — Brigid Huey [34:32]
- "Pride and Prejudice is just a bit happier." — Brigid Huey [24:33]
- "A variation is basically a what-if story." — Brigid Huey [50:46]
Further Engagement:
- Join the Landed Gentry Membership: Participate in weekly voice chats discussing Cinderella and other fairy tales. Details available in the show notes. [08:00]
- Support the Podcast: Leave a five-star review, share on social media, or make a donation through links provided.
- Explore Brigid Huey’s Works: Visit BrigidThewhe.com for more information and to purchase her books.
This summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from the Summer Session episode, providing a comprehensive overview for new and returning listeners alike.