Adventures in Sound. Rhoda Power, Archaeology and Schools Radio, 1941-1945. (Manuscript submitted for publication 2023)

Journal: Women's History Review, forthcoming special issue: "Addressing the Nation"

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

ISSN: 0961-2025

Abstract:

This paper examines the collaboration between BBC radio producer Rhoda Power and professional archaeologists Dina Dobson and Jacquetta Hawkes, in the production of the long-running Schools radio series "How Things Began". During the Second World War, radio was coming into its own as an important way of conveying topical and educational information to the citizens of Britain. At the same time, archaeology was continuing to develop as a profession with formal standards and practices, and was consolidating its role in British public life. Archaeologists were increasingly present on radio as public intellectuals, working with BBC producers to transform complex archaeological ideas into entertaining broadcasts, and in the process forging a narrative of British history through the lens of radio. Referencing material from the BBC Written Archives at Caversham, the discussion considers the techniques and working practices used by Rhoda Power and expert contributors in the creation of archaeological radio content designed to appeal to school children, and therefore contributes to an enhanced understanding of Rhoda Power's role within the BBC Schools service, as well as providing new insights into the contribution to British life and education of two eminent female archaeologists during wartime.

Source: Manual