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.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 11, 2025 • 60min
Murder in Anglo-Saxon England
Annie Whitehead, a historian and author, delves into nearly 100 murder cases from early medieval England, revealing a captivating mix of true crime and political intrigue. She discusses the complexities of Anglo-Saxon governance, including King Edwin's assassination attempts, and the biases found in historical accounts by chroniclers like Bede. The dark tales of child murders and the overlooked roles of women in power further illuminate the era's brutal reality. Whitehead's insights shed light on the motives behind these historical narratives and their implications for understanding society.
Feb 7, 2025 • 1h 10min
Treasures from Anglo-Saxon Graves
Jo Buckberry, an expert in early medieval grave goods from the University of Bradford, and Duncan Sayer, lead archaeologist at the University of Central Lancashire, dive into the treasures found in Anglo-Saxon graves. They discuss how grave goods reveal societal roles and changing beliefs over 1,500 years. Unique burial practices for children and social outcasts are examined, along with the intricate craftsmanship of swords symbolizing elite status. The conversation explores how these archaeological findings connect us to our ancestors' identities and lives.
Feb 4, 2025 • 50min
Why the Early Middle Ages Matter
Discover the true meanings behind 'medieval' and 'early medieval,' and why labeling these periods as the 'Dark Ages' is misleading—and even offensive. The conversation dives into the rich cultural and intellectual life after the Roman Empire's fall, exploring the vibrant legacy of the Byzantine Empire and the Carolingian Renaissance. Uncover the complexities of historical narratives, the gradual Christianization of Europe, and the emergence of new political structures. It's a fascinating look at a time often misunderstood and deserves to be celebrated.
Jan 31, 2025 • 56min
Leif Erikson
Matt Lewis welcomes Dr. Eleanor Baraclough, an expert in Viking history and author of "Embers of the Hands." They explore the legendary journey of Leif Erikson, debating if he truly was the first European in North America. The conversation dives into Icelandic sagas, Viking expeditions, and the complex legacy of Norse settlers. They discuss enduring cultural impacts, the relationship between Vikings and indigenous peoples, and the myth versus reality of Erikson's adventures, shedding light on his significance in understanding identity and exploration.
Jan 28, 2025 • 55min
Medieval Sex Workers
Unravel the intricate world of medieval sex work, where societal perceptions often clashed with harsh realities. Discover the lives of resilient women, including the harrowing tale of a woman named Els, who fought against exploitation in a dangerous brothel. Explore the contrasting experiences of sex workers in different regions, revealing the unique challenges they faced in the Holy Roman Empire versus England. Gain insights into the economic dynamics of municipal brothels and how societal changes shaped the lives of these women throughout medieval Europe.
Jan 24, 2025 • 53min
The Rise and Fall of Al-Andalus
Join Professor Brian A. Catlos, an expert in Islamic Spain, as he recounts the riveting saga of Al-Andalus. Discover the vibrant multicultural society where Muslims, Christians, and Jews flourished together. Learn about the remarkable advances in math, such as the introduction of Arabic numerals. Catlos also unveils the hidden power of women in this era and discusses the factors leading to the fall of the Emirate of Granada. The episode emphasizes both the rich legacy and the lessons from the rise and decline of this once-great civilization.
Jan 21, 2025 • 59min
Teutonic Knights
In this discussion, guest Alexander Pluskowski, a Professor of archaeology and author, unravels the fascinating history of the Teutonic Knights. He reveals how this small military-religious order became a powerful force in the Baltic, highlighting their unique German roots and their complex relationships with pagans. Pluskowski explores the Knights' impressive castles, their transformation from crusaders to rulers, and their pivotal conflicts against Lithuania, particularly the Battle of Grunewald, showcasing the rich tapestry of medieval heritage.
Jan 17, 2025 • 45min
Gone Medieval Goes Wassailing
Jim Causley, a talented songwriter and leader of the Halstow Wassail, discusses the revival of ancient wassailing traditions. He dives into the vibrant ritual of singing to apple trees, aiming for a bountiful harvest. The conversation explores the unique cultural blend of folklore and community spirit deeply rooted in this practice. Causley highlights the historical significance of Grey's Cider Farm, showcasing how these age-old customs have evolved while maintaining a connection to nature and community. It's a lively celebration of heritage and camaraderie!
11 snips
Jan 14, 2025 • 45min
Myths of Magna Carta
In this intriguing discussion, Steven Franklin, a Magna Carta scholar at Royal Holloway, University of London, illuminates the true purpose behind the Magna Carta—originally a peace treaty, not a symbol of civil liberties. He and Dr. Eleanor Janega dissect its mythologized status and how it primarily served the interests of the barons during King John's reign. They also explore the often-overlooked Charter of the Forest and its impact on common people's rights, sparking a reevaluation of historical interpretations and modern civil liberties.
Jan 10, 2025 • 46min
King John: Worst Medieval Monarch?
David Carpenter, a renowned medieval historian and author, discusses the controversial legacy of King John, often deemed the worst king in history. He explores John's tumultuous relationships with his family and the consequences of his leadership failures. The conversation dives into his conflicts with the church and political alliances, ultimately leading to the signing of the Magna Carta. Carpenter reveals the complexities of John's reign, shedding light on both his strategic moves and his eventual downfall, challenging the black-and-white narrative surrounding this infamous monarch.
