Gone Medieval

Did Richard III really murder the Princes in the Tower?Join Matt Lewis to dive into the enigmatic tale of the Princes in the Tower, joined by expert Philippa Langley. The discussion traverses recent discoveries that shed new light on the disappearance of Edward IV’s young sons. Highlighting the rigorous research of the Missing Princes Project, Langley reveals groundbreaking evidence, from accounting receipts to witness statements, supporting the survival of the princes beyond King Richard III's reign.Gone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis and edited by Amy Haddow. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.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: https://uk.surveymonkey.com/r/6FFT7MK

This festive discussion dives into the best medieval-themed films perfect for the holiday season. From the nostalgic charm of 'Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves' to the hilarious parody in 'Men in Tights,' the hosts explore these portrayals with humor and critique. They celebrate the gritty authenticity of 'The Last Kingdom' and the absurdity of 'Army of Darkness.' Plus, there’s a fascinating look at medieval traditions during Christmas and how these films reflect and distort history, making for an entertaining blend of merriment and storytelling.

Henrike Lähnemann, a German medieval historian and author of "The Life of Nuns," dives deep into the vibrant world of medieval nuns. She uncovers their often-overlooked roles in society, highlighting their educational journeys, political influence, and economic ventures. The discussion reveals how nuns maintained family connections while managing local trade and healthcare. Henrike shares intriguing anecdotes about their daily lives, showcasing a fascinating blend of solemnities and joyful community celebrations.

Patrick J. Murphy, an Associate Professor of English and author, joins to discuss the haunting works of M.R. James, a renowned medieval scholar and ghost story writer. They explore how James's deep knowledge of medieval texts weaves authenticity into his eerie tales. The conversation touches on themes of cursed artifacts like a whistle, the intertwining of history and horror, and the impact of World War I on his narratives. Discover how James's academic background influences the chilling atmosphere of his timeless ghost stories.

Join archaeologist Ben Robinson, known for his work on BBC's 'Villages by the Sea', as he uncovers the rich history along Britain's coastline. They delve into Cornwall's ancient tin trade and the cultural legacy of Cornish pasties. The discussion takes a fascinating turn with tales of Viking wives seeking refuge and the haunting mystery of a mummified crusader discovered in a lead coffin. Robinson's insights reveal how coastal settlements shaped national identity, weaving together legend and history into a tapestry of the past.

Jo Buckberry, Director of Studies at the University of Bradford, shares her expertise on medieval burial practices and their cultural significance. She discusses the secrets of Sutton Hoo, the role of grave goods, and the shift from pagan rituals to Christian customs. The conversation touches on battlefield mass graves and intriguing cases like St. Bees Man, revealing profound insights into societal structures and beliefs about death. The exploration of animal sacrifices and community burial rituals highlights the emotional weight of these practices across history.

Mark Gregory Pegg, author of "A Most Holy War" and expert on the Albigensian Crusade, delves into the blood-soaked battles of the early 1200s as the Church fought to eliminate heresy. He discusses the controversial Cathars and the shifting perceptions around their movement. Pegg unpacks the motivations behind Pope Innocent III’s brutal crusades against fellow Christians, revealing how these conflicts transformed medieval society and instilled a lasting fear of heresy across Christendom.

Dr. Eleanor Janega and Matt Lewis dive into the riveting tales of medieval England. They unravel the complexities of the Norman Conquest and the daring resistance of figures like Hereward the Wake. The conversation touches on King John's infamous reign and the political turmoil surrounding his conflict with the Pope. They also discuss the societal shifts during the 14th century, highlighting the Plague's impact and the Peasants' Revolt. Engaging stories and rich historical insights paint a vivid picture of a turbulent yet fascinating era.

Alice Loxton, author of "18: A History of Britain in 18 Young Lives," joins to discuss the pivotal experiences of 18-year-olds throughout history. From Bede's survival during the plague to Empress Matilda's rise amid chaos, their journeys reveal the evolution of adolescence. Loxton highlights Geoffrey Chaucer's formative years during the Black Death and Mary Anning's groundbreaking achievements by age 18. The conversation draws parallels between historical challenges and modern youth, emphasizing resilience and the significance of character.

Dr. Felicity Hill, a lecturer in medieval history and author, joins to discuss the fascinating world of excommunication in the Middle Ages. They delve into the political power struggles of figures like Emperor Frederick II and King John, revealing how excommunication served as a tool for social control and political leverage. The episode features captivating anecdotes, including stories of ordinary people impacted by this profound spiritual sanction and even a runaway nun who faked her own death to escape. It’s a deep dive into the complexities behind this ancient practice.