George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham: never had King James I's court seen a man of such exquisite beauty. Capturing the heart of the King, becoming his lover and right-hand man, Villiers thus found himself at the heart of court politics too. But along with his angelic face he also had a brilliant mind.

Renowned historian and biographer Lucy Hughes-Hallett reveals the life of this astonishingly beautiful and clever young lord, and illuminates the tender relationship he shared with the prudent King which history has mischaracterised as a coward. From Villiers's spectacular rise, to his ultimate fall, Hughes-Hallett reveals this enigmatic life in full colour.

To get an exclusive NordVPN deal, head to https://nordvpn.com/howtoacademy to

get an extra 4 months on the 2-year plan. There’s no risk with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices