Philippa Langley's remarkable journey to find King Richard III was met with an eerie silence when her discovery hit the headlines nearly 15 years ago. Many viewed it as a quixotic quest, driven by an amateur and lacking in credentials. However, Philippa's dedication and perseverance paid off when she finally found what she was searching for - a staggering achievement that would change history.
As the story behind The Lost King documentary unfolded, it became clear that Philippa's journey was not just about finding a historical figure but also about uncovering the truth about her own life. Her health struggles with ME (myalgic encephalomyelitis or chronic fatigue syndrome) were a constant companion throughout her quest.
When the film adaptation of The Lost King came to life, it shed light on Philippa's story and that of Richard Taylor, the former deputy registrar at the University of Leicester who played a crucial role in the discovery. However, as the documentary revealed, Richard Taylor had other intentions - to discredit Philippa and undermine her achievements.
The University of Leicester's response to Philippa's discovery has been a contentious issue. The institution initially kept her out of the spotlight, despite her being the driving force behind finding King Richard III's remains. When asked why Philippa was not mentioned more prominently, the university responded by labeling her an "amateur."
This dismissal is particularly egregious given that Philippa initiated the search for Richard III and determined the precise location where his remains were discovered. She also raised funds to ensure the project survived when funding was withdrawn, and it was she who insisted on excavating the leg bones found in the trench.
In response to these actions, Richard Taylor suggested an inquiry into the University of Leicester's behavior during this tumultuous period. However, instead of engaging in a public forum, I propose that we hold him accountable for his actions. As the author of The Lost King documentary, it is my intention to give voice to Philippa and her incredible achievement.
While Richard Taylor may view himself as the underdog, he and the University of Leicester are, in reality, the establishment trying to silence a truth-teller. Their actions are akin to a Goliath vs David fight, where they are the oppressor and she is the hero.
As The Lost King documentary makes clear, Philippa's story is one of courage, perseverance, and determination. It is time for Richard Taylor and the University of Leicester to acknowledge her contributions and apologize for their actions. Until then, I will continue to tell Philippa's story, giving a voice to an amateur who became an icon in the process.
As the story behind The Lost King documentary unfolded, it became clear that Philippa's journey was not just about finding a historical figure but also about uncovering the truth about her own life. Her health struggles with ME (myalgic encephalomyelitis or chronic fatigue syndrome) were a constant companion throughout her quest.
When the film adaptation of The Lost King came to life, it shed light on Philippa's story and that of Richard Taylor, the former deputy registrar at the University of Leicester who played a crucial role in the discovery. However, as the documentary revealed, Richard Taylor had other intentions - to discredit Philippa and undermine her achievements.
The University of Leicester's response to Philippa's discovery has been a contentious issue. The institution initially kept her out of the spotlight, despite her being the driving force behind finding King Richard III's remains. When asked why Philippa was not mentioned more prominently, the university responded by labeling her an "amateur."
This dismissal is particularly egregious given that Philippa initiated the search for Richard III and determined the precise location where his remains were discovered. She also raised funds to ensure the project survived when funding was withdrawn, and it was she who insisted on excavating the leg bones found in the trench.
In response to these actions, Richard Taylor suggested an inquiry into the University of Leicester's behavior during this tumultuous period. However, instead of engaging in a public forum, I propose that we hold him accountable for his actions. As the author of The Lost King documentary, it is my intention to give voice to Philippa and her incredible achievement.
While Richard Taylor may view himself as the underdog, he and the University of Leicester are, in reality, the establishment trying to silence a truth-teller. Their actions are akin to a Goliath vs David fight, where they are the oppressor and she is the hero.
As The Lost King documentary makes clear, Philippa's story is one of courage, perseverance, and determination. It is time for Richard Taylor and the University of Leicester to acknowledge her contributions and apologize for their actions. Until then, I will continue to tell Philippa's story, giving a voice to an amateur who became an icon in the process.