David Musgrove

David Musgrove, an expert on the Norman Conquest, and Marc Morris, a historian of medieval England, delve into the roots of the pivotal year 1066. They discuss the turbulent early 11th century, marked by Danish invasions and the struggles of rulers like Æthelred the Unready. The dynamics of royal succession, treachery among the English nobility, and the polarizing legacy of figures like Erle Godwin are explored. Their engaging conversation sheds light on how these events shaped England's political landscape leading to the Norman invasion.

Marc Morris, a historian known for his insights on Anglo-Saxon history, joins expert David Musgrove to delve into the dynamics of power during King Edward the Confessor's reign. They unravel the Godwin family's significant influence, revealing how Harold II seized the crown after Edward's death. The discussion highlights the political maneuvers required for succession, the rise and challenges faced by Harold Godwinson, and the tumultuous events leading to the Battle of Hastings. Their fascinating analysis sheds light on a pivotal moment in England's history.

In this engaging discussion, Professor Matthew Gabriele, co-author of 'Oathbreakers,' joins historian David Musgrove to shed light on the Carolingian Empire's pivotal role in shaping medieval Europe. They delve into the complex legacy of rulers like Charles Martel and Charlemagne, exploring the nuanced reality of the Carolingian Renaissance. The conversation also tackles the reinterpreted Battle of Tours and the fascinating political alliance between Charlemagne and the Islamic Caliph Harun al-Rashid, showcasing the empire's rich history and cultural impact.

Professor Manuel Eisner, a criminologist at Cambridge, joins historian David Musgrove to explore the dark side of medieval towns. They delve into shocking murder cases from London, Oxford, and York, revealing alarming rates of street violence. Eisner shares insights on the surprising backgrounds of both victims and perpetrators, often respected members of society. The discussion also highlights the intricate workings of the medieval justice system, including the bizarre deodand practice, where objects linked to deaths were put on trial.

Giovanni Boccaccio, a 14th-century Italian writer renowned for his tales during the Black Death, joins historian David Musgrove to delve into this catastrophic pandemic. They discuss the plague's deadly spread across Europe, its devastating impact, and the current understanding of its symptoms through recent DNA findings. The conversation also highlights misguided health beliefs and the myriad of religious and social repercussions at the time. They even touch on the potential resurgence of the disease in a modern context, emphasizing the role of antibiotics.