Intelligence Squared – Great Battle of the queens

Philippa Gregory, bestselling novelist of the The Tudor Court series books like The Other Boleyn Girl, will argue the case for her heroine, Elizabeth I. In collaboration with Gregory, Fiona Shaw will play Elizabeth I who, refusing to compromise her power by marrying or having children, kept England prosperous through wars, political and religious turmoil, and overall national anxiety. Fiona Shaw is a widely acclaimed actress and theater and opera director known for her role in the Harry Potter films, extensive work with the Shakespeare Company and National Theatre, and award-winning stage performances. No doubt, Shaw will powerfully portray arguably England’s most notable ruler.

Daisy Goodwin, screenwriter, novelist, and creator of the ITV show Victoria, will alongside Emmy Award-winning actress, Greta Scacchi, advocate for Queen Victoria. Under the rule of Queen Victoria who, unlike her rival, balanced the duties of marriage and children with sovereignty, England achieved great prominence, eventually becoming the most powerful empire the world had ever seen.

Chaired by author, historian, TV presenter, and award-winning journalist Dan Jones, and under the direction of their advocators, Fiona Shaw and Greta Scacchi will bring to life the private diaries, letters and speeches of both queens in the form of debate and intelligent discussion. But who will win the day?