Eleanor Janega

Economic experts and historians discuss the origins of capitalism, from colonial conquest to the privatization of land in Europe. Topics include the Atlantic Slave Trade, racial capitalism, and peasant uprisings against forced land separation.

Guests Karen Dempsey, Ben Jervis, and Eleanor Janega discuss the transition from feudalism to capitalism in the British Isles of the Middle Ages. They explore topics like the origins of capitalism, life in medieval cities, London's prosperity in the 14th century, the Peasants' Revolt, and spending habits of the wealthy.

Dr Eleanor Janega, medieval historian and podcaster, guides listeners through eyewitness accounts of the Black Death. She explores Boccaccio’s vivid Florentine scenes and why risqué humor turned up during plague times. Conversations cover mortality in dense cities, medieval medical theories like astrology and miasma, and how clothing, clergy moralizing and social reactions shaped responses.

Greg and his guests Miles Jupp and Dr Eleanor Janega go back to the medieval Christmas for this one-off festive special. We look at the history and traditions that have thankfully continued through the ages, like gift-giving and stuffed wild boars (although numbers on stuffed wild boar we're told are down from previous years) and some that have mysteriously fallen off from the radar completely, like the masked carol singers and jellied eels. Research - Lloyd Roberts Script- Emma Nagouse and Greg Jenner Project Management - Siefe Miyo Edit Producer - Cornelius Mendez

In this engaging conversation, Eleanor Janega, a medieval historian and co-host of the Gone Medieval podcast, dives into the intriguing world of medieval gossip. She reveals how women used gossip as a powerful social tool while discussing its negative perceptions over time. Eleanor humorously contrasts the different roles men and women played in gossip dynamics, highlighting the unique challenges women faced. The discussion also touches on the evolving nature of gossip and its impact on friendships and societal change during the medieval period.

Eleanor Janega, a medieval historian and author, dives into the intriguing concept of 'technofeudalism.' She explores how modern economic structures echo historical feudalism, dissecting labor dynamics, social hierarchies, and the evolution of economic obligations. Janega critiques flawed analogies between gig workers and serfs, emphasizing the complexities of contemporary labor conditions. The conversation also touches on the roles of political power and land ownership in shaping modern capitalism, urging listeners to rethink their understanding of both history and economic systems.

Dr. Eleanor Janega, a medieval historian and author, joins the conversation to unravel Voltaire's complex legacy. They dive into his satirical masterpiece, "Candide," and explore how he navigated issues like slavery while exposing his limitations and biases. Eleanor critiques his damaging views on medieval studies and discusses his instances of sexism and hypocrisy. The episode unveils Voltaire's troubling relationships and racialized rhetoric, ultimately revealing the contradictions behind his self-crafted image as a moral crusader.

Matt Lewis and Dr. Eleanor Janega delve into the murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral, exploring the tensions with King Henry II, the role of the knights, and the complex motivations behind the fatal clash. They analyze Henry's influence on the knights, the symbolism of the murder, and the aftermath of Becket's death, uncovering the intricate power dynamics and historical complexities of the event.

Eleanor Janega, a historian and author known for her expertise in medieval history, joins the host for a playful exploration of medieval beauty standards. They discuss how societal norms tied beauty to virtue, the surprising skincare routines of the time, and how the Black Death shifted fashion. The conversation humorously navigates the standards of male attractiveness and challenges faced by women, revealed through intriguing anecdotes. Plus, they touch on the social implications of ugliness and the myths surrounding dental health in the medieval era.

Dr. Eleanor Janega, a medieval historian and co-host of the Gone Medieval podcast, dives into the dark side of medieval royalty. She discusses notorious figures like Pedro the Cruel, whose love-led revenge was legendary, and Richard the Lionheart, known for his brutal campaigns and heavy taxes. Janega also examines Isabella the She-Wolf's cunning political maneuvers and Vlad the Impaler’s horrific tactics that birthed his infamous reputation. The conversation heats up as they rank these monarchs by their cruelty and cunning, leaving listeners questioning who truly was the most evil.