The History of English Podcast

Explore the transformation of knights from brutal warriors to noble landholders, their role in the feudal system, and the impact of knighthood on the English language. Discover the origins and changes in spelling in Middle English, the evolution of English pronunciation, and the significance of the knighting ceremony. Delve into the emergence of chivalry, the influence of the church, and the cultural revolution of Aquitaine, setting the stage for future episodes on Henry and Eleanor and their impact on the English language.

Exploring the period of anarchy in England, the podcast discusses the descent into chaos, the conflict between Stephen and Randolph, Earl of Chester, Matilda's claim to the throne, the evolution of pronouns, Empress Matilda's daring escape from Oxford castle, and the horrors of the anarchy period.

Explore the outbreak of civil war in England and the power dynamics during Stephen's ascension. Learn about the historical background of Robert of Gloucester and the Celtic influences on the region. Discover the politics, literature, and linguistic developments of the period. Delve into the origins and meaning of the word 'siege' in English and the strategies and weapons used in castle sieges.

The podcast explores the rivalry between Stephen and Matilda for the English throne, Stephen's victory over Baldwin and his connection with King David of Scotland, the linguistic developments in Northumberland and the emergence of Scots as a distinct dialect, and the origins of the song 'Old Lang's Eye'.

A podcast explores the loss of grammatical gender in the English language, discussing the challenges faced by King Henry I on gender issues, the troubles at Peterborough Abbey, the complications of succession, and the origin of peace and succession struggles after his death.

This episode explores the transition from Old English to Middle English, the impact of inventions from China, the printing press revolution, alliances and conflicts in France, the emerging modern form of English, and changes in language seen in the Peterborough Chronicle.

This podcast discusses the growth of towns and cities in England after the Norman Conquest, the evolution of the word 'kai' and its connection to the emergence of London as the capital, the aftermath of William's death and the succession crisis in Normandy, the pronunciation of plurals in English, the relationship between villages and manner courts, agricultural expansion and the linguistic history of 'Champagne,' and the origins and evolution of towns and cities in Middle English.

Explore the connections between possessions and power, as exemplified by Henry I of England. The podcast delves into the relationship between possessions and power in the context of chess, the official status of English during Henry's reign, his governance and wealth accumulation, power struggles and alliances, ongoing warfare with French rivals, and the tragic loss of his son in a shipwreck.

The podcast explores the decline of English language in the 12th century due to Latin and French domination, resulting in regional dialects and communication difficulties. It discusses the strategic marriage between King Henry and Edith to unite ruling families. The stigmatization of English and adoption of French names during the Dark Ages is explored. The impact of Norman names and the emergence of surnames are also discussed. The language shift in England during Henry's reign is highlighted.

Explore the events leading to the death of William the Conqueror and the reign of his son William Rufus. Learn about the origins and implications of forest laws in Norman England, conflicts and rivalries faced by William and his sons, the Anglo-Saxon view of William and his love for deer, the origins of 'rich' and 'poor' in Old English, and the tensions and revolts against King William Rufus.