
John Goodall
Architectural and medieval historian, author of The Castle: A History (Yale UP, 2022), and former English Heritage guidebook writer who discusses the history and cultural meanings of castles in Britain.
Best podcasts with John Goodall
Ranked by the Snipd community

Nov 19, 2025 • 57min
John Goodall, "The Castle: A History" (Yale UP, 2022)
Dr. John Goodall, an architectural historian and author, dives into the captivating history of British castles, revealing their evolution from medieval fortresses to cultural symbols. He discusses how these structures were not just military strongholds but also vibrant centers of life and imagination. Goodall explores the impact of the Norman Conquest, the views of ordinary people towards castles, and the Gothic revival's romantic reinventions. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in preservation and critiques the challenges of reconstructing historic interiors.

Nov 17, 2025 • 57min
John Goodall, "The Castle: A History" (Yale UP, 2022)
John Goodall, an architectural and medieval historian, delves into the rich tapestry of British castles in his book, exploring their roles throughout history. He discusses how castles were not just military strongholds but also vibrant centers of life and culture. Goodall highlights the evolution of castles from the Norman Conquest to the English Civil War, examining their perception in literature and society. He also addresses the implications of historical preservation and the complexities of reconstructing castle interiors accurately.


