Gone Medieval

Dr. Eleanor Janega and Matt Lewis bring our series on the Plantagenets to its climax with a look at one of England's most influential monarchs.  We pick up the story where we left off in the last episode with Roger Mortimer influencing the boy King Edward III, along with his mother Queen Isabella.  But there's so much more to discover about Edward III, who became a pivotal figure in shaping medieval England.Matt talks to Dr. Christopher Briggs and Dr. Andrew Spencer from Cambridge University, drawing upon their course which offers unique insights into the politics, economy, and society of Edward III's reign. Then Eleanor and Matt round up the series with their reflections on "the original dysfunctional family," known for "bad tempers, spoilt brats, greed, lusty men and the odd bout of genius."Gone Medieval is presented by Dr.Eleanor Janega and Matt Lewis. Edited and produced by Rob Weinberg and Joseph Knight.  The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here: https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on

Roger Mortimer: The Man Who Overthrew a King.Matt Lewis delves into the life of Roger Mortimer, a key figure in the downfall of King Edward II. Joined by historian Paul Dryburgh, they explore Mortimer's military and political career, his strategic marriage and his crucial role alongside Queen Isabella. From Mortimer's storied escape from the Tower of London to his ascent to power and ultimate execution, this is an examination the complexities and legacy of one of medieval England's most fascinating figures.Gone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis and Dr.Eleanor Janega. Lines performed by Enzo Cilenti and Daniel Evans. Audio editor is Amy Haddow, the producers are Joseph Knight and Rob Weinberg. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here: https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on

"Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned." When that woman is Queen Isabella; She-Wolf, the results are catastrophic.As our series on the Plantagenets continues, Dr. Eleanor Janega and historian Kathryn Warner dive into the fascinating life of Queen Isabella of France. From her royal status in France to her tumultuous marriage to Edward II of England, to her strategic alliance - and romance with Roger Mortimer and their joint rebellion to wrestle the Crown from Edward. They discover how a queen's rage and ambition can change the course of history.Gone Medieval is presented by Dr. Eleanor Janega. Lines performed by Enzo Cilenti. Audio editor is Amy Haddow, the producers are Rob Weinberg and Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here: https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on

Gone Medieval begins a gripping 4 part series exploring scandal, power, and betrayal in the Plantagenet Court.This one of England’s most dramatic royal sagas; from the ill-fated reign of Edward II to the rise of his son, Edward III, Matt Lewis and Dr. Eleanor Janega uncover how love and the Crown do not make good bedfellows.Each episode brings to life the key players in this enthralling saga and today Matt and Eleanor explore the disastrous reign of Edward II.With exclusive behind the scenes access to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre's rehearsals of their stunning new production of Edward II, Matt and Eleanor dissect the intricate balance of power and personal desire, detailing the king's conflicts with his barons, his disastrous military campaigns, and the role of his infamous favourites.Gone Medieval is written and presented by Matt Lewis and Dr. Eleanor Janega. Lines performed by Daniel Evans. Audio editor is Amy Haddow, the producers are Joseph Knight and Rob Weinberg. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.Tickets are available for the RSC's new production of Edward II: https://www.rsc.org.uk/edward-ii/Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here: https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on

Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by historians Andy Drummond and Professor Lyndal Roper to explore the dramatic events of the German Peasants' War, exactly 500 years ago. Together they cover the thrilling narratives of rebellion, heroism, and tragedy as thousands of peasants rose up against their suppressors. Monasteries became targets of their anger and their overflowing stores were pillaged to feed the peasant army. Eleanor discusses the key historical figures, the socio-economic pressures that led to widespread revolt, and the brutal battles that ensued.Gone Medieval is presented by Dr. Eleanor Janega. Edited and produced by Rob Weinberg. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here: https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on

How did a Viking army transform the very fabric of a nation?In 865, the Viking Great Army landed in East Anglia. For the next 15 years, it shaped England’s destiny with relentless battles, shifting alliances, and the defeat of Anglo-Saxon kings. Unlike earlier Viking raids, this army remained year-round, leaving an indelible mark on England's political, economic, and social landscape.Matt Lewis is joined by Dawn M. Hadley and Julian D. Richards, to discuss the archaeological findings that reveal not only the raids of the Viking Great Army, but their influential settlements, trade, and industry.Gone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis. Audio editor is Amy Haddow, the producers are Rob Weinberg and Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here: https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on

Dr. Eleanor Janega reveals the darker side of the Renaissance with Dr. Ada Palmer, challenging the notion that it was a golden age, exposing it as a period of political instability, medical decline, and relentless power struggles. From the propaganda of the era to the destructive reign of Renaissance popes, Eleanor and Ada hugely enjoy dissecting the complexities and darker realities that belie the glorified stories of the Renaissance while contrasting it with the misconceived 'dark' Middle Ages.Gone Medieval is presented by Dr. Eleanor Janega. Edited by Amy Haddow, the producer is Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here: https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on

Matt Lewis is joined by Professor Camilla Townsend to delve into the story of the Mexica, commonly known as the Aztecs. They unpack the true history behind the label 'Aztecs' and reveal how there's so much more to this civilisation than the outdated misconception of blood-thirsty primitives obsessed with human sacrifice.Professor Townsend shares original Nahuatl sources to show who the Mexica really were, about their humour and humanity through their own voices and how the Spanish conquest affected their society.Gone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis and edited by Amy Haddow. The producer is Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here: https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on

In early Medieval Ireland, supernatural beings moved in and out of our world, unseen. These were the residents of the Otherworld – the síd.Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by historian and novelist Lisa M. Bitel, author of Otherworld, to explore the sexy, funny, and bloody Irish stories that outshine the better-known European myths.From supernatural beings of medieval Ireland to tales of love, gender dynamics, and humorous retellings, these ancient myths connect to modern literature and culture and uncover ancient Ireland's mystic allure.Gone Medieval is presented by Dr. Eleanor Janega. Edited by Amy Haddow, the producer is Rob Weinberg. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here: https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on

What happens when one of the greatest empires in history begins to unravel? Matt Lewis explores the turbulent era of the Carolingian Empire's rise and fall with Matthew Gabriel and David Perry. The Carolingian Civil War saw kings fighting kings, brother facing off against brother, and sons challenging their fathers. Together they delve into the succession disputes among the Frankish rulers, the violent conflicts that shaped medieval Europe, and the myth-making that justified Carolingian rule.Gone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis and edited by Amy Haddow. The producer is Rob Weinberg. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here: https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on

Records from Anglo-Saxon England are filled with stories of murder, witchcraft and betrayals of the worst kind, giving the impression that this period was one of lawlessness and rebellion. But how many of these tales are true? How do they square with a period known to have had lengthy, detailed law codes and harsh punishments for unlawful killing? Dr. Eleanor Janega meets historian and author Annie Whitehead who has collated some 100 cases from regicides to robberies gone wrong, to ask what, if anything, they can tell us about the motives of those who recorded them and about Anglo-Saxon governance and society?Gone Medieval is presented by Dr. Eleanor Janega. Edited by Amy Haddow, the producer is Rob Weinberg. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here: https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on

What can grave goods tell us about the lives of people 1,500 years ago? Matt Lewis delves into the early medieval world through the lens of burials with Professor Jo Buckberry, discussing how the treasures found in Anglo-Saxon graves changed over the years and provide insights into the cultural, political, and familial dynamics of a fascinating period.Matt is also joined by Professor Duncan Sayer, lead archeologist at a secret-location dig has revealed an Anglo-Saxon cemetery full of stunning weapons, jewellery and medieval DNA. Photos of the newly discovered grave goods:https://www.uclan.ac.uk/news/kent-sword-excavationGone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis. It was edited and researched by Amy Haddow. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here: https://uk.surveymonkey.com/r/6FFT7MK

What do the terms 'medieval' and 'early medieval' truly mean? When did these periods begin and end? Why is it inaccurate - even offensive - to refer to them as the 'Dark Ages'? Dr. Eleanor Janega and Matt Lewis put their heads together to demystify the terminology used to define different historical periods and clarify some common misconceptions.Gone Medieval is presented by Dr. Eleanor Janega and Matt Lewis. Edited by Rob Weinberg. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here: https://uk.surveymonkey.com/r/6FFT7MK

Matt Lewis dives deep into the life and exploits of Leif Erikson, debating whether he was the first European to set foot in North America. Joined by Dr. Eleanor Barraclough, they explore the sagas of this intriguing Viking figure, the archaeological evidence supporting Norse exploration, and the fascinating cultural legacy that has turned Leif into a symbol of discovery and identity in America.Gone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis and edited by Amy Haddow. The producer is Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here: https://uk.surveymonkey.com/r/6FFT7MK

How did medieval cities manage and regulate sex work? Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by Dr. Jamie Page to discuss the lives of sex workers, the operation of municipal brothels, and the legal and societal challenges these women faced. They uncover detailed case studies and the broader implications of sex work regulations across medieval Europe contrasting the experiences of sex workers in different regions and highlighting the unique practices in the Holy Roman Empire compared to England.Gone Medieval is presented by Dr. Eleanor Janega. Edited by Amy Haddow, the producer is Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here: https://uk.surveymonkey.com/r/6FFT7MK