The Daily · Podcast summary
How a 1,000-Year-Old Tapestry Took London by Storm
Culture reporter Alex Marshall explains how the 1,000-year-old Bayeux Tapestry, a piece of fabric depicting the Norman Conquest, became the hottest ticket in London, and why its temporary return to the UK is such a big deal.
Listen on the show ↗The digest
In a rare and unprecedented move, the 1,000-year-old Bayeux Tapestry, an embroidered cloth depicting the Norman Conquest of England, has been temporarily loaned to the United Kingdom from France. Culture reporter Alex Marshall joins Michael Barbaro to discuss the tapestry's historical significance, its improbable journey, and the fervor surrounding its exhibition in London.
Not a Tapestry, but an Embroidery
Marshall clarifies that, technically, the Bayeux Tapestry is not a tapestry but an embroidery. A tapestry is woven on a loom, while an embroidery is stitched by hand. This distinction, though seemingly minor, is crucial for textile historians. The Bayeux Tapestry, despite its common misnomer, is a prime example of an 11th-century embroidery. This detail highlights the meticulous craftsmanship and the historical context of its creation, emphasizing the artistry involved in hand-stitching such a massive and detailed piece of fabric.
Keep reading in The Digest
The full 3-minute article, 4 more sections, and every new episode from The Daily and the creators you follow.
- The Mona Lisa of Textiles
- The Story of the Tapestry: A Tale of Betrayal and Conquest
- The Tapestry's Improbable Journey to London
- Macron's Impossible Loan
More from The Daily
Chris Rock Has Been Thinking About Forgiveness
Chris Rock discusses his new film Misty Green, reflections on Hollywood, comedy, forgiveness, and personal growth.
He Was Deported to a Country He’d Never Heard Of
Nicholas Casey reveals the Trump administration's controversial practice of deporting immigrants to unfamiliar third countries, spotlighting Roberto Mosquera's harrowing story in Eswatini.
The Best TV Shows of the 21st Century
Gilbert Cruz and James Poniewozik discuss the New York Times' list of the 100 best TV shows of the 21st century, exploring the evolution of television storytelling and culture.
The Trump Administration Defangs the Endangered Species Act
The Trump administration is rolling back environmental protections, specifically targeting the Endangered Species Act. Rachel Abrams speaks with New York Times colleague Catrin Einhorn about the history of the act, the recent changes, and the potential impact on vulnerable animals and ecosystems.
Aaron Sorkin Still Believes in American Institutions, Even If No One Else Does
Aaron Sorkin discusses his new film, "The Social Reckoning," a follow-up to "The Social Network," and delves into his writing process, his views on social media, and his enduring optimism for American institutions.
The Techno-Religion at the Center of the A.I. Debate
In this episode, Cade Metz explains the origins of the rationalist movement, a powerful subculture that believes in the power of technology to do anything, and how their ideas have influenced the current debate around AI safety.