Gone Medieval

Step into the mist-shrouded world of medieval magic, forbidden love, and forgotten prophecies. In this episode of Gone Medieval, Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by renowned Arthurian expert John Matthews to explore The Prophecies of Merlin — a long-lost medieval text finally translated into English after more than 500 years. This extraordinary book, first published in Paris in 1498, reveals a darker and lesser-known side of Britain’s most famous wizard. From Merlin’s demon-born origins and his entrapment by the Lady of the Lake, to his chilling prophecies of kings, crusades, and the end of days, the text uncovers secrets long hidden from the Arthurian tradition. Whether you’re fascinated by Arthurian legend, intrigued by medieval prophecy, or curious about how forgotten manuscripts reshape our understanding of history, this episode will transport you deep into the enchanted — and unsettling — world of Merlin.More:Legend of William TellLegends of Robin HoodGone Medieval is presented by Dr Eleanor Janega. Audio editor is 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt Lewis shifts the Gone Medieval spotlight from well-known Viking raiders and celebrated Anglo-Saxon kings to consider Æthelstan, an often overlooked yet crucial figure in British history. Æthelstan was the first monarch to unite the region that resembles modern England and to call himself King of the English. Matt is joined by David Woodman - author of The First King of England: Athelstan and the Birth of a Kingdom - for an in-depth exploration of Æthelstan's significance and legacy.MoreMurder in Anglo-Saxon EnglandThe Witan: England's First Parliament?Gone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis. It was edited by 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://uk.surveymonkey.com/r/6FFT7MK Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eleanor of Aquitaine was a queen who defied expectations, a duchess who outmanoeuvred kings, and a mother whose dynasty shaped the future of Europe. She is often remembered through myth, gossip, and legend—but the truth is far more fascinating. Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by Professor Lindy Grant, to uncover the real story of Eleanor. From her early vulnerability as Queen of France, to her pivotal role as Queen of England and Queen Dowager, Eleanor’s political journey is one of survival, reinvention, and brilliance.Gone Medieval is presented by Dr. Eleanor Janega. Audio editor is 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt Lewis and Levi Roach uncover the importance and intricacies of the Domesday Book, a monumental survey commissioned by William the Conqueror to consolidate his power following the 1066 Battle of Hastings, and the infamous Harrying of the North. The Domesday Book's astonishing level of detail is unpacked, revealing insights into landholding changes, taxation, and the bureaucratic prowess displayed by William's administration.Gone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis. It was 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Eleanor Janega unravels the blood-soaked aftermath of the Battle of Hastings and the Norman Conquest of England. Joined by Professor Levi Roach, Eleanor delves into the harrowing campaign, known as the Harrying of the North, where William the Conqueror brutally suppressed the north of England through widespread destruction and terror tactics. They explore the political impact, the subsequent revolts, and how these events reshaped the English social landscape. MORE:Battle of HastingsWilliam the ConquerorGone Medieval is presented by Dr. Eleanor Janega. The audio editor and 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: Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Unmasking the Myth: The Real Story of William WallaceMatt Lewis and Dr. Fiona Watson get to know the true life of William Wallace, challenging the myths popularised by the film Braveheart. From Wallace's background and family origins to his role in Scotland’s fight for independence and ultimate demise, Matt and Fiona unravel the stunning real historical narrative. From Wallace's significant victories and strategic moves to his enduring legacy as a symbol of Scottish patriotism, free from the embellishments of Hollywood. Matt also ask the most important questions; did William Wallace wear a kilt, and did he bare his bottom to the English?!More:The Origins of ScotlandCastles, Kings and Courtly Life, StirlingGone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis. It was edited 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 to watch the new Rebel series starring William Wallace. Plus 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When medieval people gazed at the moon, they saw more than just a glowing orb in the night sky.  For them, the moon was a powerful yet fragile presence—both distant and intimate, symbolising not only love and beauty, but also exile, loss, and mystery. Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by Dr. Ayoush Lazikani, author of The Medieval Moon: A History of Haunting and Blessing, to explore how cultures across the globe—from England and Wales to China, Japan, South America, and beyond—imagined and interacted with the moon during the Middle Ages.  From astronomy and astrolabes to Japanese lunar princesses and European folktales, their conversation reveals the moon as a universal yet deeply mysterious force that bound humanity together across cultures.More:The Green Manhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/5EocBSBHa0TgdoiGuzpEr7Life and Legends Along the Medieval Coastlinehttps://open.spotify.com/episode/3YamBjNHcVY3l3YMO7HTPKGone Medieval is presented by Dr. Eleanor Janega. Audio editor is 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From his early years marked by an assassination attempt on his father that coincided with Edward's conception, to his brutal campaigns against the Welsh and Scots, Edward I's reign is completely thrilling.Matt Lewis and Dr. Andrew Spencer delve into the life and legacy of this medieval warrior, reformer and conqueror, who threw himself into a Crusade, survived an assassin's blade and poison and transformed English governance.More:Henry IIIOrigins of Scottish IndependenceGone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis. It was 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The image we usually associate with a Crusader - of a dashing nobleman on a mighty steed heading out for Holy War - often obscures all of the other medieval people who went to the Holy Land, especially the countless women.In this edition of Gone Medieval, Dr. Eleanor Janega talks to Dr. Natasha Hodgson about the women who went everywhere that men went, and what our own expectations lead us to overlook in history. They discuss key figures like Eleanor of Aquitaine and lesser-known individuals like Margaret of Beverly, underscoring the impact and significance of women in the crusading campaigns and medieval society.More:Rise of Crusader Stateshttps://open.spotify.com/episode/7JmbHJRMaDlRn4jOQUlQN8Gone Medieval is presented by Dr Eleanor Janega. The audio editors are Ella Blaxill and 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A King clinging to his right to rule. A young Tudor ready to snatch the crown and begin a new dynasty.With immersive sound design and cinematic story-telling; Matt Lewis brings to life one of the pivotal moments in English history—the Battle of Bosworth.On August 22, 1485, Richard III faced off against Henry Tudor, a clash that culminated in the end of the Wars of the Roses and marked a turning point for the English crown. From the strategic moves on the battlefield to the dramatic death of Richard III and the rise of Henry VII, Matt delivers a vivid recounting of the events that reshaped England's monarchy.MORERichard IIIPrinces in the Tower: New Evidence RevealedWatch Matt Lewis at Bosworth on History Hit's YouTube channelGone Medieval is written and presented by Matt Lewis. Sound design 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 including Matt Lewis' two part documentary on Richard III. 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode contains obscene and sexual language throughoutThe medieval world was far from prudish, it was positively bawdy. Writers, preachers, and even everyday neighbours used blunt, often hilarious language to talk about sex and the body—not just for laughs, but to make sharp points about morality, hypocrisy, and power. Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by Prof. Carissa Harris to celebrate Medieval obscenity, from bawdy verse to barbed sermons, explicit language was a tool: it punctured vanity, exposed corruption, and brought lofty ideas down to earth with a thump.Expect double meanings and razor wit. Wordplay was a medieval superpower.More:Sex: The Medieval Ruleshttps://open.spotify.com/episode/04dWeyQsk50eXP0dNNWQrKGone Medieval is presented by Dr Eleanor Janega. The audio editor is 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://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt Lewis and Helen Castor uncover the romantic entanglements and perilous struggles of the 15th-century Paston family, whose personal correspondences reveal intimate details of love, ambition, and survival during the Wars of the Roses. Through the incredible archive of letters we meet the indomitable matriarch Margaret and her sons John II and John III, as they navigate political turmoil, defend their home in a dramatic siege, and experience forbidden love. A rare glimpse into the past through thrilling stories of medieval romance and danger preserved through centuries.MOREReal Medieval Women with Philippa Gregoryhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/2bGP4HAgsUgVkazs2DkdywRichard II vs. Henry IV with Helen Castorhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/6FwoVILnFD15Q5S7Qm3WhPGone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis. It was 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happened when tyranny came face to face with an imperturbable crossbow sharp-shooter?Dr. Eleanor Janega explores the myth of Switzerland’s most iconic medieval folk hero with Dr. Marc Lerner. They revisit Altdorf in 1307 where William Tell - allegedly - defied a tyrant with a single, legendary shot and launched a legacy of freedom, resistance, and revolution. But was Tell real or a myth built from folklore? And how did his story echo across the French and American Revolutions, becoming a powerful symbol of liberty far beyond the Swiss Alps?MOREJoan of Archttps://open.spotify.com/episode/4hBFIbXaKdchf8eTKVrgNfGerman Peasants Warhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/57KnTNLmI2LAua6742ompDGone Medieval is presented by Dr.Eleanor Janega. It was 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://uk.surveymonkey.com/r/6FFT7MK Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As a summertime treat, Dr. Eleanor Janega is let out of the Gone Medieval dungeon to join Matt Lewis to delve into the complexities of the 15th century, focusing on England's tumultuous history. From the political upheavals following the deposition of Richard II to the Wars of the Roses, they explore significant figures including Henry V, Joan of Arc, and several influential queens. Their discussion highlights the evolution of political structures, the rise of Parliament, and the changing role of women in this fascinating period, shedding light on how these historical events shape our understanding of medieval England and its legacy.More:How to Survive the 14th Centuryhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/4H07YkgPdb3iYvCrokhDajMovie Knight: Medieval World on Filmhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/51UIHVtrsIHqKJujhu1HnSGone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis and Dr. Eleanor Janega. 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How did the 14th-century Black Death influenced fashion trends? And were medieval bald men considered 'hot' because their hair burned off due to their masculinity?From clear skin and youthful appearance to the controversial make-up practices of the period Dr. Eleanor Janega and Dr. Kate Lister explore this fascinating, ever-changing concept.MOREReal Medieval Women with Philippa Gregoryhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/2bGP4HAgsUgVkazs2DkdywGone Medieval is presented by Dr. Eleanor Janega. It was edited by Tom Delargy and Amy Haddow, the producer is Stuart Beckwith. 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt Lewis explores Edward III's daring naval gamble at the Battle of Winchelsea in 1350 with Dan Jones.Together they unravel the dramatic events of the Battle and the real history behind Edward III's desperate scheme against the Castilian fleet, all of which are covered in Dan's new novel 'Lionhearts'.Matt and Dan discuss the tumultuous alliances, the impact of the Black Death, and the gritty, life-or-death struggles faced by sailors and soldiers to offer a comprehensive look at a lesser-known yet crucial battle in the Hundred Years' War.MOREThe Hundred Years Warhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/3UQkEb0MTdJdwYmJB333RXEssex Dogs and the Crécy Campaign with Dan Joneshttps://open.spotify.com/episode/74J5w43gzbvrzjdXQMj2qLGone 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step into a torch-lit world where dragons weren’t just monsters—they were symbols of power, chaos, faith and fear. Dr. Eleanor Janega explores the fire-breathing creatures that haunted the imagination of the Middle Ages. From the serpentine wyrms lurking beneath castles to the crowned basilisks whose gaze could kill, dragons shaped medieval mythology, religion and heraldry in profound ways.Eleanor is joined by Dr. Sam Riches to uncover how dragons were used to represent everything from Satanic evil to royal might.MOREMonsters of the Medieval Apocalypsehttps://open.spotify.com/episode/54HitUMboNBFWtOJQhvH3HMedieval Monsters, Ghosts & Werewolveshttps://open.spotify.com/episode/0daEokZMvacfQVvHeHcZyeGone Medieval is presented by Dr. Eleanor Janega. It was edited by Tim Arstall, 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here on Gone Medieval we love to share the historical nuggets you won't commonly find.We are the insider's guide to Medieval times. and today Matt Lewis is taken on a whistle-stop tour of Medieval England by Julian Humphrys, to explore five noteworthy locations that might just be round the corner from your campsite or ferry stop this summer.From Viking raids and the Wars of the Roses to medieval architecture and the defense strategies of Dover, this episode is packed with intriguing stories and insights, offering valuable tips for those planning a historical day out, or just taking a day trip in your mind.MORERise of British Castleshttps://open.spotify.com/episode/3KTKsTMaiamMSAoxLqCKup1217: The year that forged Englandhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/68DvpSKUnxPybL8T4ilgtZGone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis It was 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://uk.surveymonkey.com/r/6FFT7MK Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by historian Roger Crowley to unravel the captivating history of Venice, the Queen of the Adriatic. How did this city, born from a lagoon, ride the changing tides of trade in the 15th century to evolve into a formidable maritime empire? From its unique social structures to its role in the Fourth Crusade, Eleanor and Roger take an in-depth look at Venice's unparalleled success and its challenges.Gone Medieval is presented by Dr. Eleanor Janega. It was edited by Rob Weinberg, 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.More:The Holy Roman Empire >The Silk Road: Where Cultures Collided >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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Monsterland.The Medieval world is a realm of dragons, demons and beasts. Matt Lewis and Nick Jubber step into this murky world to tell the magical tales of the Bavarian Dragon's fire-breathing spectacle, the dark allure of Japan's mischievous Oni, and the hauntingly beautiful legend of Orkney's Selkies.An adventure into the rich tapestry of medieval folklore and what these monsters reveal about human nature and the fears of the past.MOREMonsters of the Medieval Apocalypsehttps://open.spotify.com/episode/54HitUMboNBFWtOJQhvH3HWelsh Folk Taleshttps://open.spotify.com/episode/3rNA9vSBAs4MuE1T5X2VReGone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis. It was edited and produced by 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.