Helen Carr

Historian Helen Carr, author of "Sceptred Isle: A New History of the Fourteenth Century," guides listeners through the tumultuous 14th century. She examines the struggles of monarchs like Edward II, whose reign was marked by personal and political chaos. The devastating impacts of the Black Death and famine are explored, alongside the emergence of the Peasants' Revolt. Carr emphasizes the human stories behind these events, shedding light on the vulnerabilities and leadership challenges faced by rulers during this transformative era.

Helen Carr, historian and author of 'Sceptred Isle', explores the chilling impact of the Black Death. She discusses its origins in the Tian Shan region and the surprising pathways it took through trade routes. Listeners will learn about eerie remedies like chicken bottoms and the baffling lack of understanding regarding fleas. Helen delves into societal responses, revealing how compassion emerged amid chaos. Lastly, she highlights how the pandemic shifted cultural attitudes towards death, sparking both social mobility and artistic reflection.

Historian Helen Carr, author of 'Scepted Isle,' dives into the tumultuous 14th century, unraveling gripping tales of resilience and upheaval. She discusses the chaos of the Peasants' Revolt and the transformative impact of the Black Death on society. The mental struggles of kings like Edward II and Richard II reveal a personal side to history. Carr also highlights the influential roles of queens, the extravagance of 14th-century courts, and how medieval art reflects societal views on mortality. This era laid the foundation for modern Britain.

Helen Carr, a medieval historian and author of The Sceptered Isle, delves into the chaotic 14th century England. She discusses the onset of the Hundred Years’ War and its impact on the nation. Carr highlights Queen Isabella's ascent to power amid social upheaval and examines the tragic fate of Princess Joan, entwined with love and plague. Additionally, she reflects on Edward II's turbulent reign and the cultural transition leading to the Renaissance, showcasing how this century profoundly shaped England's future.

In this engaging discussion, historian Helen Carr shares her expertise on medieval royals, exploring why Queen Isabella earned the nickname 'She-Wolf.' She reveals the surprising connection between the Black Death and heightened sexual freedom, and examines the intriguing relationship between Edward II and his favorite Piers Gaveston. Helen also delves into Isabella’s rise to political power and the brutal fate of Hugh Despenser, providing a vivid picture of scandal and intrigue in the 14th century.

Helen Carr, an award-nominated historian and author of 'Sceptred Isle', dives into Scotland's bold fight for independence. She highlights the chaos following King Alexander III's death and how Edward I exploited the situation. With charismatic figures like William Wallace and Robert the Bruce emerging, the conversation shifts to military strategies and the significance of the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. Carr uncovers the myths surrounding Wallace and contrasts the leadership styles of the Plantagenet kings, revealing the complexities of this pivotal moment in Scottish history.

Rick Stroud, a bestselling military historian, joins forces with Helen Carr, an expert in public history, to shed light on the untold stories of women in World War I. They reveal how women contributed significantly as spies and nurses, forming underground networks and gathering crucial intelligence. The discussion highlights Gabrielle Petty’s courageous legacy, illustrating the bravery of women who faced dire risks for their efforts. This conversation challenges traditional narratives and urges the recognition of women's vital roles during this tumultuous time.

Sathnam Sanghera, a writer and author known for his insights on British identity, teams up with Helen Carr, a historian specializing in medieval history. Together, they dive deep into the lasting impact of the British Empire on modern society. They explore personal experiences of colonial legacies in places like Barbados, the complex relationship of language and culture, and the responsibility of the monarchy regarding imperial history. Their conversation confronts difficult truths while advocating for a more inclusive narrative of the past.

Classicist Mary Beard, historian Helen Carr, political sketch-writer Tom Peck, and writer Konnie Huq discuss the relevance of Tacitus, children's TV impact, and Lord Byron's fan mail. Topics include power, corruption, journalistic history, and diversity in media representation.

Francesca Peacock, a journalist and author, joins historian Helen Carr to shed light on Margaret Cavendish, a groundbreaking 17th-century writer. They explore Cavendish’s solitude and struggles during the English Civil War, her unique marriage that empowered her writing, and her complex legacy as a proto-science fiction author. The duo highlights how Cavendish defied gender norms through her eclectic works, inviting listeners to appreciate her vision and impact on women's literature and modern thought.