Janina Ramirez

Join cultural historian Dr. Janina Ramirez and comedian Kae Kurd as they embark on a wild journey through Old Norse literature. They discuss legends filled with gods, trolls, and mistletoe, revealing how such outrageous tales shape our understanding of Viking culture. The duo dives into the antics of Loki, including his bizarre transformations and family ties, and explores the tragic story of Baldur. With humor and insight, they also explore the relevance of these ancient myths in today's world, including a playful quiz and engaging banter.

Greg Jenner is joined by special guests Dr Janina Ramirez and Lou Sanders in 11th-century Europe to take a close look at the Bayeux Tapestry. They explore the history of this famous artefact which is in fact, not a tapestry at all! Who commissioned it, and more importantly who made it and where? Is the famous image of the death of Harold II accurate or have we been missing another part of the picture? What are the often overlooked margins of the Bayeux Tapestry trying to tell us and above all, how on earth has this extraordinary piece of history survived all these years?You’re Dead To Me is a production by The Athletic for BBC Radio 4.Research by John Mason Written and produced by Emma Nagouse and Greg Jenner Assistant Producer: Emmie Rose Price-Goodfellow Project Management: Siefe Miyo Audio Producer: Abi Paterson

Janina Ramirez, an Oxford-based medieval historian and author of Legenda, joins Sir Tony Robinson to unravel the true stories behind famous medieval women like Joan of Arc and Lady Godiva. They discuss how these women's narratives have been distorted by nationalism and myth. Janina highlights the realities of Joan's warrior spirit amid war, the actual legacy of Godgifu, and the shifting roles of women in medieval society. Her insights reveal how history often buries the agency and power of women, prompting a re-evaluation of their impact on our past.

Chine McDonald, an author known for her explorations of faith and race, and Janina Ramirez, a professor of medieval history, discuss the powerful imagery of Black Madonnas. They explore the absence of black representations of the Virgin Mary and the cultural and emotional significance of these figures. McDonald shares her personal journey and encounters with Black Madonnas in France, while Ramirez highlights their historical context. Together, they examine how these images empower marginalized communities, particularly Black women, within religious spaces.

Delve into Norse mythology with elves, giants, and gods. Learn about Viking culture through storytelling and sagas. Challenge misconceptions about Vikings as bloodthirsty raiders. Discover the unique characters and chaos in Norse mythological narratives.