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
Aug 13, 2024 • 47min
The Real Joan of Arc
Dr. Eleanor Janega and Dr. Kate Lister dive into the fascinating life of Joan of Arc, a 17-year-old peasant girl who defied societal norms to lead the French army. They discuss her divine visions and how they propelled her to defend France against the English. The conversation highlights her strategic impact in battle and how wearing men's clothes challenged gender expectations of the time. They also examine her tragic fall and lasting legacy on French identity, exploring why Joan remains a symbol of courage and faith.
Aug 9, 2024 • 36min
Antisemitism in Medieval Europe
In this discussion, Professor Ivan Marcus, an expert on the Christian-Jewish dynamic in medieval Europe, explores the troubling history of antisemitism. He highlights the 1290 edict of expulsion in England, which made being Jewish illegal for centuries. The conversation digs into 'latrine blasphemy' and the ways religious ideologies defined each community. Marcus also examines the tensions that escalated during the Crusades, the dehumanizing stereotypes that emerged, and the chilling continuity of antisemitism from medieval times to the present.
Aug 6, 2024 • 43min
The Normans in Italy: From Pilgrims to Conquerors
Dr. Levi Roach, an expert on medieval history, shines a light on the Normans' little-known conquests in 11th century Italy. The discussion delves into the transformation from humble mercenaries to dominant rulers in a fractured landscape. Their complex relationship with the papacy emerges, showcasing a strategic alliance against Muslim forces. Roach reveals how the Normans navigated local cultures and rivalries in Sicily, ultimately reshaping the region's political dynamics and cultural identity.
Aug 2, 2024 • 43min
Richard III's Mother: Cecily
In this discussion, Annie Garthwaite, an author known for her focus on historical narratives, highlights Cecily Neville, the mother of two English kings and a key player during the Wars of the Roses. They explore how Cecily navigated a male-dominated society while shaping her family’s legacy. The talk also delves into the emotional landscape of women during this tumultuous period, including their hidden power and resilience. Garthwaite uncovers the complexities of characters like Richard III, challenging conventional narratives around his reputation.
Jul 30, 2024 • 44min
Rollo: The First Norman
Mathias Dilys, a cultural interpreter at Château de Falaise, joins medieval expert Dr. Eleanor Janega to delve into the intriguing journey of Rollo, the first ruler of Normandy. They discuss Rollo's evolution from a Viking outlaw to a respected Jarl and the strategic maneuvers that defined his reign. The conversation uncovers the complexities of Viking identity, the significance of treaties, and Rollo's conversion to Christianity. They also explore how Rollo's legacy shaped not just Normandy but the entire fabric of European history.
Jul 26, 2024 • 46min
The Cult of Becket
Dr. John Jenkins discusses the cult of Becket after his murder, the surge of pilgrims to Canterbury, spread across Europe, the economic impact, relic lore, the destruction attempts by figures like Thomas Cromwell, and the lasting impact of Becket's saintly legacy.
Jul 23, 2024 • 33min
Emperor Frederick II: Scourge of the Papacy
Dr. Eleanor Janega delves into the controversial life of Emperor Frederick II, exploring his diverse talents and labeled controversies, from being a scholar and architect to rumors of being a pagan or secret Muslim. She discusses his political intrigues, scholarly patronage, cruel experiments, complex relationship with the papacy, and contradictory legacy that has fascinated historians.
Jul 19, 2024 • 47min
The Medieval Tudors
Medieval history expert Nathan Amin dives into the surprising story of the Tudor monarchs' ancestors, exploring Welsh prophecies, Henry Tudor's rise to power, the Tudor family's involvement in Owain Glendour's rebellion, Catherine of Alois's political strategies, and the controversy surrounding Owen and Catherine's marriage. A fascinating look at the Tudors' medieval origins.
8 snips
Jul 16, 2024 • 1h 3min
The Murder of Thomas Becket
Matt Lewis and Dr. Eleanor Janega delve into the murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral, exploring the tensions with King Henry II, the role of the knights, and the complex motivations behind the fatal clash. They analyze Henry's influence on the knights, the symbolism of the murder, and the aftermath of Becket's death, uncovering the intricate power dynamics and historical complexities of the event.
Jul 12, 2024 • 46min
Henry II & Thomas Becket: A Doomed Friendship
In this podcast, delve into the intricate friendship between King Henry II and Thomas Becket, from trusted allies to bitter rivals. Explore Becket's rise from a working-class background to Archbishop of Canterbury and his doomed relationship with the king. Unravel the power struggles, tensions, exile, and eventually, Becket's murder, leading to a world-famous legacy.
