Gone Medieval
History Hit
From long-lost Viking ships to kings buried in unexpected places; from murders and power politics, to myths, religion, the lives of ordinary people: Gone Medieval is History Hit’s podcast dedicated to the middle ages, in Europe and far beyond.New episodes every Tuesday and Friday.A podcast by History Hit, the world's best history channel and creators of award-winning podcasts Dan Snow's History Hit, The Ancients, and Betwixt the Sheets.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.
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Episodes
Mentioned books
15 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 1h 2min
Love and Death in Old Songs
Join Amy Jeffs, an author known for her creative reimaginings of traditional ballads, as she delves into the captivating world of medieval music and folklore. In this engaging discussion, she explores themes of love and morality through haunting ballads, revealing their oral roots and narrative forms. Amy highlights the collaborative process of transforming these songs into stories with illustrations and music. Additionally, she shares insights on the contemporary relevance of ballads and their mesmerizing tales of temptation, fairy encounters, and survival.
18 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 59min
King Arthur
Dr. Mary Bateman, a lecturer at the University of Bristol and expert on Arthurian traditions, joins Matt Lewis to unpack the enduring legend of King Arthur. They discuss Arthur's transformation from a Roman warlord in early texts to a romantic hero in the Middle Ages. Mary explores the political motives behind Geoffrey of Monmouth's tales and Arthur's connections across Europe, revealing how his story reshaped notions of kingship and ideal leadership. The podcast also highlights the importance of powerful women in these narratives and Arthur's ongoing relevance in modern culture.
29 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 58min
Prophecies of Merlin
Join renowned Arthurian scholar John Matthews, an expert in myth and the Grail tradition, as he unveils the freshly translated Prophecies of Merlin. Discover Merlin's darker origins and his entrapment by the Lady of the Lake. Matthews delves into how prophetic texts served political purposes and reveals a more human side of Merlin. The conversation also explores the connections between Merlin, Prester John, and the intriguing relics that captured medieval imaginations, painting a vivid picture of this mystical era.
12 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 50min
Æthelstan: The Birth of England
David Woodman, a historian and author, delves into the life of Æthelstan, the first King of the English. He highlights Æthelstan’s pivotal role in unifying England and his innovative use of marriage diplomacy to solidify power. The discussion also covers the dramatic capture of York, the significance of the Æmout Bridge Assembly, and the legacy left by the Battle of Brunanburh. Woodman sheds light on how Æthelstan's reign laid the groundwork for modern England, making him a crucial yet often overlooked figure in history.
10 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 1h
The Real Eleanor of Aquitaine
In this discussion, Professor Lindy Grant, a Medieval History expert and author, unpacks the life of Eleanor of Aquitaine, a monarch who redefined power dynamics in the Middle Ages. They delve into her strategic marriages and political acumen, revealing how she navigated treachery and loyalty, especially during the tumultuous reigns of Louis and Henry II. The conversation also addresses her influence on culture, her relationships with her sons, and the often-misunderstood legacy of this formidable queen.
Sep 12, 2025 • 55min
After 1066: The Domesday Book
Levi Roach, a historian specializing in Anglo-Saxon and Norman England, joins Matt Lewis to discuss the Domesday Book, commissioned by William the Conqueror. They delve into its astonishing detail, documenting land and resources post-1066. Roach highlights its role in consolidating Norman power and the administrative genius behind it. The conversation also unpacks the complexities of historical governance and the ongoing significance of this monumental survey in understanding England's socio-economic landscape.
Sep 9, 2025 • 52min
After 1066: The Harrying of the North
In this engaging discussion, Professor Levi Roach, a noted medieval historian, unpacks the grim ramifications of the Harrying of the North following the Battle of Hastings. He and Dr. Eleanor Janega delve into William the Conqueror's brutal tactics, the political turmoil that ensued, and the tragic consequences for the North of England. They also explore the complex legacy of resistance figures like Harward and how these events not only reshaped governance but also contributed to the historic north-south divide in England.
23 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 1h 2min
William Wallace, Scottish Rebel
Fiona Watson, a historian specializing in medieval Scotland, dives deep into the life of William Wallace, the legendary Scottish rebel. She debunks popular myths from 'Braveheart' and reveals the truth behind Wallace's strategic decisions during pivotal battles, especially at Falkirk. Learn about his ascension as Guardian of Scotland and his quest for independence, including his alliances and eventual betrayal. The discussion highlights his lasting legacy as a symbol of Scottish patriotism while amusingly questioning some of his folklore, like the infamous kilt tale.
5 snips
Sep 2, 2025 • 53min
The Medieval Moon
Dr. Ayoush Lazikani, a lecturer at Oxford and author of *The Medieval Moon*, reveals how the moon shaped medieval mindsets across cultures. They discuss its dual nature as both powerful and delicate, influencing love, spirituality, and folklore. The conversation touches on the moon's impact on agriculture and health, alongside intriguing cultural narratives from Europe to East Asia. They also explore themes of exile and isolation in literature, showcasing the moon's profound role in human experiences and emotional connections.
19 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 1h 20min
King Edward I: Hammer of the Scots
Join Andrew Spencer, a Senior tutor at Gonville and Caius College, as he unveils the gripping life of King Edward I. From surviving an assassination attempt to brutal campaigns in Wales and Scotland, Edward's journey is nothing short of epic. Explore his strategic marriage, military genius, and transformative legal reforms that deeply influenced English governance. Discover the political intricacies of his reign, the challenges he faced, and how his legacy has evolved over time—all framed within the tumultuous backdrop of medieval power struggles.
