This episode explores the Tichborne case, a significant Victorian-era trial, through an interview with novelist Zadie Smith, author of *The Fraud*, a novel based on the case. Against the backdrop of a disputed inheritance and a mysterious disappearance, the discussion delves into the story of Arthur Orton, a butcher who claimed to be the long-lost Sir Roger Tichborne. More significantly, the interview analyzes the public's fascination with the case, highlighting its blend of class conflict, racial dynamics (involving a key Black witness, Andrew Bogle), and the role of sensationalized media coverage. For instance, the episode details how the claimant's audacious lies, coupled with the public's desire for a working-class victory against the elite, fueled a massive populist movement. The narrative further examines the trial's impact on the English legal system, prompting reforms due to its excessive length and questionable practices. Ultimately, the episode reveals how the Tichborne case serves as a compelling historical parallel to modern-day populist movements and conspiracy theories, demonstrating the enduring power of sensationalism and the public's appetite for narratives that challenge established power structures.
