History Extra podcast

In a captivating discussion, author Nancy Goldstone reveals the lives of two stunning empresses, Elisabeth of Austria and Eugénie of France. She explores how they challenged societal norms, with Sisi promoting women's rights and Eugénie redefining royal roles through sports and politics. Goldstone dives into their tumultuous experiences, including Eugénie's struggles with Napoleon III's infidelities and their shared grief over lost sons. This conversation brings to light their resilience and the lasting legacies these remarkable women left on royalty.

Clive Bloom, Emeritus Professor of English and American Studies and author of *London Uncanny*, delves into the eerie and gothic side of London. He discusses the uncanny narratives hidden in everyday places, exploring iconic sites like Highgate Cemetery and the Temple of Mithras. Bloom reveals how Victorian fears shaped the psyche of Londoners, touching on supernatural tales from suburbia and the unsettling essence of urban exploration. He even connects modern attractions like Abba's holograms to the city’s haunted history.

Hannah Skoda, a fellow and tutor in medieval history at St. John's College, Oxford, joins to unravel the past's impact on modern issues. They delve into the evolution of international security, tackling the balance between morality and the necessity of war in the Middle Ages. The discussion highlights the historical foundations of social issues like rough sleeping and the Vagrancy Act of 1824, revealing how economic factors intertwine with security and societal attitudes toward poverty. Expect intriguing connections between history and today's headlines!

Max Adams, author of The Mercian Chronicles, dives into the overlooked kingdom of Mercia and its critical role in forming early England. He highlights King Offa's leadership and the importance of Offa's Dyke as a significant boundary. The discussion covers the political dynamics of rulers like Æthelbald and examines Mercia’s unique blend of Christian influences. Adams argues for a reevaluation of Mercia’s contributions to English history, challenging narratives that often glorify Wessex and King Alfred.

Professor James Palmer, an expert from the University of St Andrews and author of 'Merovingian Worlds', takes us deep into the fascinating reign of the Merovingians. He reveals how this Frankish dynasty cleverly wielded violence, myth, and even hair to assert power. Discover the intriguing role of King Clovis in shaping modern France and the symbolic importance of uncut hair in Merovingian kingship. Palmer also dives into scandalous tales of King Chilperic and Fredegund, showcasing a world rife with betrayal and political intrigue.

In this engaging discussion, military historian James Holland, known for his expertise and works on WWII, shares fascinating insights into the final moments of the war. He dives into the dramatic Axis surrenders, particularly Germany's chaotic capitulation and its leaders' delusions. The conversation also explores the complexities of the negotiations surrounding unconditional surrender and the implications for post-war Europe and Japan. Holland brings to light lesser-known stories, including Hitler's remains, revealing the intricate narratives that defined this historic conflict.

Claire Bubb, Assistant Professor of Classical Literature and Science and author of 'How to Eat,' shares fascinating insights into ancient Greek and Roman health practices. She discusses how these civilizations shaped dietary norms and exercise regimens to enhance well-being. Listeners learn about quirky topics like the historical reputation of basil and the economic factors influencing diet. Bubb draws parallels between ancient wisdom and modern health trends, revealing timeless strategies to achieve balance in life and nutrition.

In this engaging discussion, Professor Robert Pasnau, an expert on medieval philosophy, sheds light on Thomas Aquinas, a pivotal 13th-century theologian. He explores Aquinas’s transformative integration of Aristotelian thought with Christian theology. Listeners will discover how Aquinas's early life shaped his groundbreaking ideas and his struggles against familial expectations to join the Dominican order. Pasnau also delves into Aquinas's profound contributions, particularly his enduring work, the 'Summa Theologiae,' and the legacy that still influences spiritual and secular thought today.

Edward Abel Smith, a talented author and podcaster, dives into Ian Fleming's flamboyant wartime life, revealing absurd tales of bogus sex parties and exploding tin cans. He discusses how Fleming's role as a wartime intelligence officer dramatically influenced the creation of James Bond. The conversation explores the real-life espionage inspirations behind Bond's iconic adventures, shedding light on Fleming's innovative strategies, like Operation Tracer, while framing his larger-than-life escapades in the context of his literary genius.

Join Augustine Sedgwick, author of 'Fatherhood: A History of Love and Power', as he dives into the historical evolution of fatherhood. He discusses how ancient cultures viewed fathers and the pivotal role they played in society. The conversation reveals the transformation through Christianity, highlighting St. Augustine's challenging views. Sedgwick also explores the impact of legal changes on fatherhood during Tudor England and how societal expectations have shifted from the time of Henry VIII to modern-day, reflecting on the complexities of paternal influence.