After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal

In this intriguing discussion, Campbell Price, an Egyptologist and curator at the Manchester Museum, sheds light on the underbelly of Ancient Egypt. He delves into the harsh realities faced by workers constructing the pyramids and challenges the notion of slavery in their labor force. Price reveals the brutal practices of ancient warfare, including the disturbing collection of trophies. The conversation pulls back the curtain on ancient beliefs, highlighting how magic and ritual intertwined with the daily lives of Egyptians, offering a captivating glimpse into their complex society.

Misha Ewen, a lecturer in early modern history and author of The Virginia Venture, joins to unravel the mystery of Virginia Dare, the first English child born in America. They explore the intriguing fate of the lost colony of Roanoke, the significance of family in colonization, and how legends have evolved over time. Ewen discusses the contested identity of Virginia and the implications of the mysterious Dare stones, shedding light on how these stories intersect with issues of race and nationalism in American history.

Hallie Rubenhold, a best-selling historian known for her fresh perspectives on historical narratives, dives into the notorious Dr. Crippen murder case that captivated Edwardian Britain. She explores the societal shifts of the time, the deceptive dynamics within the Crippen household, and the haunting nature of domestic violence. The discussion reveals the psychological complexities of the key individuals involved, particularly the sociopathy of Crippen and Ethel's ambitions, shedding light on how this shocking crime redefined public discourse around murder.

Emma Southon, a historian and author, dives into the gruesome realities of ancient Rome, a civilization often glorified yet steeped in brutality. She reveals chilling tales of execution methods like 'the sack' for patricide, exposing the normalization of violence against slaves. The conversation explores the morbid entertainment of gladiatorial combat and public executions, reflecting societal values and power dynamics. Southon also discusses a shocking case of domestic murder revealing the dark intricacies of justice in Roman society.

Join Ceri Houlbrook, a lecturer in history and folklore and author of 'Folklore: A Journey Through the Past and Present', as she unravels the mystery of Spring-Heeled Jack—Victorian London's bizarre urban legend. They explore terrifying encounters, his supernatural powers, and how this figure embodied societal fears amid radical change. The discussion connects folklore with class struggles, reflecting on how legends like Jack mirror the anxieties of their time and evolve with society's landscape.

A spectral Black Dog with hellish eyes; a homicidal water spirit who drowns children; a mermaid who takes revenge on a vile cad. Maddy Pelling takes Anthony Delaney on a tour through the dark side of English folklore.The episode also features thoughts from artist, author and filmmaker, Ben Edge. Find out more about Ben's work here: https://www.benedge.co.uk/Edited by Tomos Delargy. Produced by Stuart Beckwith. Senior Producer is Charlotte Long.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe.  You can take part in our listener survey here.All music from Epidemic Sounds.After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal is a History Hit podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Explore the tumultuous final days of King George III as personal struggles and political upheaval shape his legacy. Delve into his mental health decline, public perception, and the isolation he faced. Witness the emotional backdrop of his dignified funeral and reflect on the shifting views of monarchy in a modern era. Discover the complexities of a ruler often labeled as mad, finding a nuanced understanding of his life amidst the historical chaos of the time.

Can it be murder if you think you're killing a ghost? In 1804 the London suburb of Hammersmith was being terrorised by a ghost. One man set out to hunt down whoever, or whatever, this was. He almost swung from the end of a rope for his troubles.Join Anthony and Maddy for this ghostly Halloween episode.Written by Maddy Pelling.Edited by Tom Delargy. Produced by Freddy Chick. Senior Producer is Charlotte Long.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe.  You can take part in our listener survey here.All music from Epidemic Sounds.After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal is a History Hit podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Russ Williams, author and expert in Welsh folklore, as he unravels the enchanting yet eerie tales of Wales. Discover the mythical origins of the Red Dragon on the national flag and the haunting legends of the Cŵn Annwn, the hounds of the otherworld. Explore the quirky tradition of the Mari Lwyd, a festive horse’s skull bringing cheer at Christmas. Learn how Fleetwood Mac's Stevie Nicks intersects with Welsh myth, making this a captivating journey through history, culture, and the darker corners of Welsh storytelling.

Cecily Gilligan, an expert on Irish folk remedies and author of 'Cures of Ireland', delves deep into the eerie tales of changelings and their chilling impact on families in 19th century Ireland. She discusses the haunting story of Bridget Cleary, who fell victim to these dark beliefs. The conversation also explores cursing stones and the revival of traditional Irish cures, showcasing how folklore intertwines with cultural identity and the healing practices still alive today. Unearth the shadows lurking behind folklore and its profound significance.