Charlotte Higgins is the chief culture writer of the Guardian, writing on the arts in many forms, including for the “long read”, Opinion, and culture sections. 

Since 2022, much of her focus has been reporting on Russia’s war in Ukraine, using culture as a lens. As an author, most of her books touch on the classics. Under Another Sky: Journeys in Roman Britain, about Britain’s 400-year period under Roman rule, was shortlisted for the Samuel Johnson (now Baillie Gifford) prize, among other awards, and has been adapted into a play by David Greig. 

Her latest, Greek Myths, was shortlisted for the Waterstones book of the year 2021. In naming her one of 10 extraordinary British women writers working today, novelist Elif Shafak wrote: 

“Charlotte Higgins is an author with magic in her pen. From ancient subjects she conjures living text: vast conversations about who we are today and why the stories we tell really matter.” 

Born in the Potteries, in the English Midlands, Charlotte is a fellow of the Society of Antiquaries, a past winner of the Classical Association prize and and a trustee of the British School at Rome. With Professor Mary Beard, she is co-host of the podcast Instant Classics.