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

Eleanor Janega, a medieval historian and author, dives into the intriguing concept of 'technofeudalism.' She explores how modern economic structures echo historical feudalism, dissecting labor dynamics, social hierarchies, and the evolution of economic obligations. Janega critiques flawed analogies between gig workers and serfs, emphasizing the complexities of contemporary labor conditions. The conversation also touches on the roles of political power and land ownership in shaping modern capitalism, urging listeners to rethink their understanding of both history and economic systems.

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.

Eleanor Janega, a historian and author known for her expertise in medieval history, joins the host for a playful exploration of medieval beauty standards. They discuss how societal norms tied beauty to virtue, the surprising skincare routines of the time, and how the Black Death shifted fashion. The conversation humorously navigates the standards of male attractiveness and challenges faced by women, revealed through intriguing anecdotes. Plus, they touch on the social implications of ugliness and the myths surrounding dental health in the medieval era.

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.