Great Lives Episodes Available now
![](https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320x180/p01hf31l.jpg)
Gertrude Stein
Erin Pizzey chooses Gertrude Stein. With Diana Souhami. Presented by Matthew Parris.
![](https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320x180/p01hdzjl.jpg)
Oscar Wilde
Will Self nominates Oscar Wilde.
![](https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320x180/p01hdr4t.jpg)
Dylan Thomas
Dylan Thomas chosen by Welsh poet Owen Sheers.
![](https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320x180/p01h948p.jpg)
Razia Sultana
Conservative politician Baroness Warsi nominates a 13th-century Indian princess.
![](https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320x180/p01h8sv4.jpg)
Gracie Allen
Actress Emma Kennedy chooses the life of the American comedienne Gracie Allen.
![](https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320x180/p01h8prg.jpg)
Joseph Rotblat
Astronomer Royal Sir Martin Rees champions the life of his hero, physicist Joseph Rotblat.
![](https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320x180/p01h8jn3.jpg)
Lonnie Donegan
Downton Abbey actor Jim Carter champions the life and work of skiffle king Lonnie Donegan.
![](https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320x180/p01h8k05.jpg)
Ludwig II of Bavaria
Brian Sewell on his love of 'Mad' King Ludwig II of Bavaria.
![](https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320x180/p05tk2zs.jpg)
Thomas Hobbes
Steven Pinker joins Matthew Parris to discuss the life of the philosopher Thomas Hobbes.
![](https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/images/ic/320x180/p05tk30g.jpg)
Ludwig Wittgenstein
Ludwig Wittgenstein, fascinating and misunderstood thinker, is chosen by Raymond Tallis.