Dan Jones, a historian and author renowned for his insights into medieval history, dives into the legacy of England’s King Henry V. He explores the king's remarkable rise to power and his nine-year reign that reshaped history. Listeners will learn about Henry’s leadership style, the unique dynamics of his military strategies, and the intriguing accounts of medieval executions. The discussion also touches on Henry’s evolving legacy and how contemporary views influence our understanding of historical narratives.

Dan Jones, a renowned British historian and author, dives into the legacy of Henry V, exploring why he stands out among historical kings. He discusses the importance of learning from history to understand today’s world and shares captivating stories of uncovering lost historical evidence. The conversation also touches on how popular culture influences our perception of past leaders, the impact of misinformation in historical narratives, and the vital connection between understanding history and modern democracy. Tune in for insights that blend the past with the present!

Messalina was the third wife of the Emperor Claudius and one of the most notorious women of the Roman world. Historians Tacitus and Suetonius wrote that the Empress Messalina was ‘a ruthless and sexually insatiable schemer.’ The stories they told about her included nightly visits to a brothel and a twenty-four-hour sex competition with a prostitute. Tales like these have defined the empress’s legacy but is her story more complex? Classicist Honor Cargill-Martin joins us to reveal the truth about arguably one of the most slandered and underestimated female figures of ancient history who is the subject of her recent book, Messalina: A Story of Empire, Slander and Adultery. She describes a woman battling to assert her position in the overwhelmingly male world of imperial Roman politics – and succeeding. Intelligent, passionate and ruthless when she needed to be, Cargill-Martin argues that Messalina’s story encapsulates the cut-throat political maneuvering and excessive lifestyle of the Roman elite in their heyday. Joining Cargill-Martin in conversation is Dan Jones, one of Britain's best known historians.We’d love to hear your feedback and what you think we should talk about next, who we should have on and what our future debates should be. Send us an email or voice note with your thoughts to podcasts@intelligencesquared.com or Tweet us @intelligence2. And if you’d like to get ad-free access to all Intelligence Squared podcasts, including exclusive bonus content, early access to new episodes and much more, become a supporter of Intelligence Squared today for just £4.99, or the equivalent in your local currency . Just visit intelligencesquared.com/membership to find out more.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dan Jones, a best-selling author known for his captivating historical narratives, joins Kate Williams to discuss the complex legacy of Henry V. They examine the duality of Henry as both a brutal warrior and an insightful diplomat. The duo delves into Shakespeare’s influence on public perception and the implications of Henry's tactical decisions during his short reign. They also reflect on the turbulent backdrop of his rise to power, including the dramatic events leading to the Battle of Shrewsbury, showcasing the harsh realities of medieval warfare.

Historian Dan Jones’ specialty is the Middle Ages. Dan Carlin adores the Middle Ages. Normans anyone? 1. Powers and Thrones: A New History of the Middle Ages by Dan Jones 2. The Templars: The Rise and Spectacular Fall of God's Holy Warriors by Dan Jones 3. The Wars of the Roses: The Fall of the Plantagenets and the Rise of the Tudors by Dan Jones 4. The Plantagenets: The Warrior Kings and Queens Who Made England by Dan Jones 5. Crusaders: The Epic History of the Wars for the Holy Lands by Dan Jones

Helen Castor, a historian and author specializing in medieval England, joins Dan Jones, who has penned a biography on Henry V, to delve into the complexities of this legendary king. They discuss Henry's transformation from a carefree youth into a formidable ruler amid the chaos of Richard II's reign. The duo highlights Henry's pivotal victories at Harfleur and Agincourt, revealing how personal struggles and formative battles shaped his legacy. They also explore the intricate dynamics of kingship and the lessons learned from his predecessors.

Dan Jones, a best-selling author and medieval historian, joins Helen Castor, renowned for her insights into medieval England, to discuss the fascinating figure of Henry IV. They explore his tumultuous rise from a usurper to a pivotal monarch, delving into his complex relationship with Richard II. The conversation highlights Henry's chivalric virtues, his struggles with health and rebellion, and the burdens of kingship, revealing how his legacy was shaped by the political intrigues of his time.

Helen Castor, a historian specializing in medieval England, and Dan Jones, author of works on English royalty, delve into the complexities of Richard II's kingship. They discuss Richard's detachment from the realities of governance and his obsession with hygiene, revealing a monarch who struggled amid the Peasants' Revolt. They also explore Richard's unique upbringing, his authoritarian shifts during crises, and how his artistic contributions contrast with his failures as a ruler, leading to his poignant downfall.

Dan Jones, a historian renowned for his insights into medieval English monarchy, teams up with Kate Williams, a historian and novelist specializing in British history. They discuss the complex legacy of Henry V, exploring his military triumphs, including the pivotal Battle of Agincourt, and the societal challenges he faced. The conversation highlights how Henry's leadership both stabilized England and sowed seeds of future conflict. They delve into the strategic decisions that shaped his reign and the intertwining of his personal and political ambitions.

Dan Jones, a celebrated historian and author, returns to discuss his new book on Henry V, the quintessential medieval king. He delves into Henry's childhood, the complexities of his biography, and the unique challenges of depicting historical figures. The conversation highlights the pivotal Battle of Agincourt, contrasting Henry's leadership with that of others, and the interplay of individual ambition and royal duty. Jones also reflects on the narrative techniques essential for engaging with history, making Henry V's legacy resonate even today.