In this episode, Marina Warner introduces the fairy tale, a form of literature that has had the power to enchant us and spark our imaginations for hundreds of years. Learn more about Fairy Tale: A Very Short Introduction here:https://global.oup.

In this episode, Laura Marcus introduces one of the most popular written forms, the autobiography, form that offers understanding of the ways in which lives have been lived and fundamental accounts of what it means to be a self in the world.

In this episode, Paul Klenerman introduces the immune system, central to all human health and area of continual focus in medical research. Learn more about The Immune System: A Very Short Introduction here:https://global.oup.

In this episode, Kimberly Reynolds introduces children’s literature, which not only encompasses picture books, pop-ups, and novels, but has modernised to also include online games and eBooks. Learn more about “Children’s Literature: A Very Short Introd...

In this episode, Catriona Kelly introduces Russian literature centred around the figure of Alexander Pushkin that permeates into national culture. Learn more about Russian Literature: A Very Short Introduction here:https://global.oup.

In this episode, Joachim Whaley introduces the Holy Roman Empire, once described by Voltaire as ‘neither holy, nor Roman, nor an empire’, as its history and significance is often misunderstood. Learn more about “The Holy Roman Empire: A Very Short Intr...

In this episode, Dana Arnold introduces art history, which encompasses the study of the history and development of painting, sculpture, and the other visual arts. Learn more about “Art History: A Very Short Introduction” here: https://global.oup.

In this episode, Julian Baggini introduces atheism, wrongly considered to be a negative, dark, and pessimistic belief characterized by a rejection of values and purpose and a fierce opposition to religion. Learn more about “Atheism: A Very Short Introd...

In this episode, Julia Simner introduces synaesthesia, a neurological condition that gives rise to a ‘merging of the senses’, in which words can be tasted and colours can be heard. Learn more about “Synaesthesia: A Very Short Introduction” here: https:...

In this episode, Miri Rubin introduces the Middle Ages, a term coined around 1450 to describe a thousand years of European history. Learn more about “The Middle Ages: A Very Short Introduction” here: https://global.oup.