France’s Horrifying Rape Trial Has a Feminist Hero

Warning: This episode contains graphic descriptions of sexual violence.

After months of testimony, verdicts are expected as soon as this week in a rape trial that has both horrified and captivated the people of France.

Catherine Porter, who has covered the trial, discusses the woman at the center of the case and how, with a single decision, she has turned the power dynamics of the #MeToo era on their head.

Guest: Catherine Porter, an international correspondent for The New York Times based in Paris.

Background reading: 

• France’s horrifying rape trial has a feminist hero.
• Dominique Pelicot says he invited men to rape his wife, whom he had drugged. The French media call them “Mr. Every Man” because they come from such ordinary backgrounds.

For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.

Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everything from politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.