Gone Medieval

For the Plantagenets, family might be a curse as often as a boon. They could provide invaluable support, or dangerous rivalry. At the end of the 14th century, the relationship between two first cousins rocked England, ruptured the line of succession and had a long legacy.Helen Castor joins Matt Lewis to discuss the fascinating true story of cousins who became deadly rivals.Gone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis. The editor is Ella Blaxill and the producer is Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original TV documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign up HERE for 50% off your first 3 months using code ‘MEDIEVAL’ https://historyhit.com/subscriptionYou can take part in our listener survey here: https://uk.surveymonkey.com/r/6FFT7MK Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Explore the fascinating evolution of British castles, from military fortifications to communal hubs. Discover how the Norman Conquest shaped architectural choices and power dynamics. Learn about the strategic placement of castles controlling routes and populations. Uncover the multifunctional nature of these iconic structures, reflecting wealth and status. Delight in tales of legendary sites like Dover Castle, integral to England's history and defense.

Join Matt Lewis and Professor Robert Bartlett, a specialist in historical narratives, as they delve into the fiery fate of manuscripts throughout history. They discuss how revolutions have literally erased centuries of knowledge, like the nearly lost Beowulf. The conversation touches on the fragility of medieval texts and the significance of major events, such as the Peasants' Revolt, in shaping national identity. They also reflect on the tragic erasure of Irish history during the 1922 Revolution and celebrate those dedicated to preserving our literary heritage.

Charles IV, the Holy Roman Emperor, transformed Prague into a cultural gem, commissioning iconic landmarks like Charles Bridge and Charles University. In this discussion, Dr. Eleanor Janega highlights his surprising rise to power, navigating political intrigues and language barriers. Charles was both a devoted ruler restoring the Empire's glory and a skilled politician facing challenges with the nobility and papacy. His dual legacy as a builder and a politician illustrates the complexities of royal life during tumultuous times.

Join Dr. Eleanor Barraclough, an expert in Viking history, as she sheds light on the fascinating lives of ordinary people from the Viking Age. Explore how archaeological artifacts like love letters and everyday tools unveil the intimate details of Viking life. Discover the overlooked roles of women and enslaved individuals in shaping history. Hear captivating tales of random discoveries, including treasured finds in midden heaps, that reveal the emotional landscape of a vibrant society. This deep dive brings to life the human connections that transcended time.

Dr. Eleanor Janega, a Viking era expert, and researcher Alex Harvey, dive into the rich tapestry of Viking life beyond the familiar warrior stereotype. They discuss new findings about Viking artistry, travel, and cultural interactions, particularly in places like Spain and the Mediterranean. The duo challenges simplistic historical narratives and emphasizes the importance of recognizing the Vikings' diverse legacy through both textual and archaeological lenses. Their insights invite listeners to rethink what they know about this influential era.

In this discussion, Dan Jones, an expert on English history and author specializing in the Plantagenets, delves into the complexities of Henry V's legacy. Was he a heroic king or a ruthless butcher? They evaluate his military strategies, particularly at the Battle of Agincourt, and explore his psychological development after Shrewsbury. The conversation also touches on Shakespeare’s portrayal of Henry, revealing how historical figures can be romanticized or demonized. Listeners gain insight into the challenges of leadership in tumultuous times.

In this discussion, Dr. Eleanor Janega, a researcher specializing in Viking history, teams up with Heather Pringle, who sheds light on the often unseen lives of Viking women. They explore the mystery behind the lavish burial of two women, revealing their possible identities as warriors and leaders. The conversation dives into women's significant roles in trade, rituals, and society, challenging the male-dominated narratives of the Viking Age. Their insights highlight the fierce independence and diverse contributions of these remarkable women throughout history.

Dr. Thomas Smith, a leading historian of the Crusades, joins Matt Lewis to unravel the complexities of the First Crusade. They discuss how a collection of 22 crusader letters challenges traditional narratives and underscores authenticity issues in medieval scholarship. Dr. Smith introduces the concept of 'textual archaeology,' revealing original manuscripts beneath later alterations. The conversation also explores how local agendas shaped crusade narratives, inviting listeners to rethink their perceptions of this pivotal historical event.

Dr. Eleanor Janega, a medieval history expert, invites Dr. Fraser McNair, who translated the remarkable Visions of Flothilde. They discuss the harrowing experiences of 10th-century French peasants, particularly a young girl named Flothilde, whose vivid visions reflect the violent turmoil around her. The conversation reveals how Christianization impacted local communities and explores the often-ignored suffering of the lower class. They also delve into how vivid dreams intertwined with spiritual and sociopolitical conflicts in medieval society.