Gone Medieval

Tom Horton, a comedian and former resident of the Tower of London, shares his unique insights living there while his father served as Constable. He tells captivating ghost stories, including the eerie hauntings of Arabella Stuart and even an unused toilet for Hitler. The discussion dives into infamous prisoners like Henry VI and the mysteries surrounding the Princes in the Tower. Tom also reflects on the community life at the Tower and how these extraordinary experiences inspire his comedy.

In this enlightening discussion, curator Charles Farris shares insights into the Tower of London's medieval palace displays and its material culture. He delves into the opulent renovations by Henry III and Edward I, where ambition and intrigue thrived within grand royal rooms. Farris reveals fascinating details about the Tower's medieval menagerie, including a white bear, and examines the vibrant life of the royal court, from lavish banquets to multilingual interactions. He also highlights the significance of objects used in daily life, underscoring the rich tapestry of medieval culture.

Annie Whitehead, a historian and author focused on Anglo-Saxon England, dives into the rise and fall of the kingdom of Mercia. She discusses its strategic location and tribal origins, led by notable figures like the pagan warrior-king Penda and the empire-builder Offa. The podcast reveals Mercia's cultural contributions and the challenges it faced during Viking invasions. Whitehead highlights the kingdom's lasting legacy, showing how its influences helped shape the foundations of the English nation.

Dive into the dark side of medieval history! Discover the tumultuous tales of notorious rulers like Pedro the Cruel, known for his dramatic vengeance and tragic romances. Unpack Richard the Lionheart's controversial reign, marred by heavy taxation and alleged massacres. Meet Isabella the She-Wolf, whose thirst for power led to a bloody overthrow in England. And don't miss the chilling exploits of Vlad the Impaler, whose gruesome methods earned him a legendary, if twisted, status. Rankings reveal who truly earned the title of the most evil monarch!

The heart of the Assassin’s Creed franchise is the deadly rivalry between the brotherhoods of Assassins and Templars. These were real groups in history, whose power and influence in their lifetimes matched the longevity of their reputations. But how much of what we know of the two organisations is myth, and what is reality?To help separate fact from fiction, Matt Lewis is joined by Dr Steve Tibble, author of Assassins and Templars: A Battle in Myth and Blood.Echoes of History is a Ubisoft podcast, brought to you by History Hit. Listen to it here.Hosted by: Matt LewisEdited by: Michael McDaidProduced by: Robin McConnellSenior Producer: Anne-Marie LuffProduction Manager: Beth DonaldsonExecutive Producers: Etienne Bouvier, Julien Fabre, Steve Lanham, Jen BennettMusic by Elitsa AlexandrovaTell us your favourite Assassin's Creed game or podcast episode at echoes-of-history@historyhit.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Dr. Michael Carter, a Senior properties historian at English Heritage and expert on medieval hauntings, as he delves into chilling winter ghost tales. He explores how these stories reflect medieval beliefs about purgatory and the impact of Advent's somber atmosphere. Carter shares insights from the Byland Abbey ghost manuscripts, discussing their role in prompting prayers for the dead. He also examines the haunting motif of the three living and the three dead, alongside the physical effects and remedies when encountering revenants. A fascinating journey into medieval supernatural lore!

Annie Whitehead, a historian and author specializing in Anglo-Saxon England, joins to unravel the intriguing legend of Lady Godiva. They discuss the origins of the story, noting its roots in a 13th-century tale rather than contemporary accounts. Annie confirms Godiva was a real and influential figure in 11th-century Mercia, highlights her significant role as a landholder, and explores the political landscape of her time. The conversation underscores the fascinating realities of Anglo-Saxon women, revealing their legal rights and societal impact.

Dr. Oren Margolis, an expert in Renaissance Studies and Jewish heritage, sheds light on the haunting discovery of a medieval well in Norwich, revealing the remains of 17 Jewish individuals from the 1190 massacre. He discusses the Jewish community's establishment after the Norman Conquest, their roles in finance, and the vulnerabilities they faced due to antisemitism. Margolis explores the implications of the William of Norwich blood libel, the eventual expulsion in 1290, and ongoing efforts to preserve Jewish heritage in modern Norwich.

Join Dr. Tim Pestell, an archaeologist and curator with deep expertise in medieval sites, as he unravels the secrets of Norwich Castle. Discover the fire-scarred vaults from past sieges and the opulent walrus-ivory bobbin linked to royal needlework. Tim also shares fascinating finds like arrowheads and skeletons from the castle's prison days. Delve into the history of Henry I's feasting hall and the castle's transformation from royal palace to jail, revealing its compelling 900-year story.

In this engaging discussion, Tim Larsen, McManus Professor of Christian Thought at Wheaton College, reveals how St. Francis of Assisi revolutionized Christmas by staging the first nativity play in 1223. Delve into the dramatic evolution of worship that fused spirituality with spectacle and public engagement. Learn how Francis's theatrical approach, including the use of vernacular songs and nature imagery, made religious narratives accessible to all. Explore the deeper themes within the nativity story, highlighting Francis's message of peace and compassion.