Eleanor Janega

Economic experts and historians discuss the origins of capitalism, from colonial conquest to the privatization of land in Europe. Topics include the Atlantic Slave Trade, racial capitalism, and peasant uprisings against forced land separation.

Guests Karen Dempsey, Ben Jervis, and Eleanor Janega discuss the transition from feudalism to capitalism in the British Isles of the Middle Ages. They explore topics like the origins of capitalism, life in medieval cities, London's prosperity in the 14th century, the Peasants' Revolt, and spending habits of the wealthy.

Greg and his guests Miles Jupp and Dr Eleanor Janega go back to the medieval Christmas for this one-off festive special. We look at the history and traditions that have thankfully continued through the ages, like gift-giving and stuffed wild boars (although numbers on stuffed wild boar we're told are down from previous years) and some that have mysteriously fallen off from the radar completely, like the masked carol singers and jellied eels. Research - Lloyd Roberts Script- Emma Nagouse and Greg Jenner Project Management - Siefe Miyo Edit Producer - Cornelius Mendez

Matt Lewis and Dr. Eleanor Janega delve into the murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral, exploring the tensions with King Henry II, the role of the knights, and the complex motivations behind the fatal clash. They analyze Henry's influence on the knights, the symbolism of the murder, and the aftermath of Becket's death, uncovering the intricate power dynamics and historical complexities of the event.

Medieval historians Dr. Eleanor Janega and Dr. Kate Lister delve into the complexities of medieval sex work. They discuss the coexistence of scholars and sex workers in the same buildings, societal attitudes towards commerce and censorship, regulations on attire and health, the ongoing struggle with moral implications, and historical rescue attempts. This episode contains explicit language and content.

Medieval history expert Eleanor Janega joins to discuss Graeber's analysis of debt. They explore the moral confusion of American empire post-9/11, the ethical dilemmas of debt and lending practices, and the negative stereotypes surrounding usurers and borrowers throughout history.

Greg Jenner and his guests Miles Jupp and Dr Eleanor Janega go back to the medieval Christmas for this one-off festive special. They look at the history and traditions that have thankfully continued through the ages, like gift-giving and stuffed wild boars (although numbers on stuffed wild boar we're told are down from previous years) and some that have mysteriously fallen off the radar completely, like masked carol singers and jellied eels.For the full-length version of this episode, please look further back in the feed.Research: Lloyd Roberts Script: Emma Nagouse and Greg Jenner Project Management: Siefe Miyo Edit Producer: Cornelius Mendez

Historian Dr. Eleanor Janega and Matt Lewis discuss Harold Godwinson, Harald Hardrada, and William the Conqueror's race for power in 1066. They delve into England's centralization, Harold's alliances, and the strategic significance of the kingdom. The podcast explores Harold's unconventional path to the throne, his coronation, and the quest for legitimacy in a turbulent political landscape.

Dr. Eleanor Janega and Professor Carol Rawcliffe discuss medieval health and fitness in this episode. They cover topics such as the four humors theory, diet, exercise, hygiene practices, public health initiatives, dietary advice, exercise for different social classes, health practices among friars and citizens, and the role of pigs in medieval cities.

Eleanor Janega, a medieval historian and author known for her insights on women's roles in history, dives into the fascinating origins of Christmas. She discusses the holiday's evolution from ancient winter festivities to modern celebrations. Janega reveals how traditions like gift-giving and the Christmas tree emerged, while debunking myths of their pagan roots. The interplay between St. Nicholas and Santa Claus is explored, alongside the significant roles of Mary and the Three Kings. It's a captivating journey through medieval festivities and their lasting impact on today's Christmas.