

The History of English Podcast
Kevin Stroud
The Spoken History of a Global Language
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 15, 2015 • 45min
Episode 70: Mind Your Manors For Pete’s Sake
Exploring the impact of the Norman Settlement on English language, the evolution of words and their meanings over time, the prohibition of slavery in England, the transformation of 'sake' and 'seek' in Old English, linguistic connections and societal changes during the Norman period, and the establishment of manner courts and the Norman jury system.

Oct 30, 2015 • 46min
Episode 69: From Conquest to Domesday
This episode explores the Norman Conquest's impact on England, including the introduction of the feudal system and French language, the shift of land ownership, the origins of the calendar and month names, the significance of the English land survey, the origins of the jury system and the importance of the Domesday Book, and the arrival of the Brettons and their influence on England and the legend of King Arthur.

Oct 16, 2015 • 49min
Episode 68: Rebels With a Cause
This podcast explores the impact of William the Conqueror on the English language, discussing the contrast between native English words and borrowed French words. It also delves into William's rule in England, the aftermath of his victory, rebellions, and the replacement of Anglo-Saxon church officials with Normans.

Sep 18, 2015 • 1h 6min
Episode 67: The Year That Changed English
This podcast delves into the events of 1066, including the Norman Conquest and the decline of Old English. It explores the impact of the conquest on the English language and discusses Harold Godwinson's path to the throne. The significance of Harold's return to London and the start of the fighting season is explored, along with the limited military resources he had against William's forces. The podcast also covers the Viking invasion of the North and Harold's realization of his mistake.

Aug 20, 2015 • 56min
Episode 66: Broken Promises and the Eve of Conquest
Explore the rise of William of Normandy, the Norman Conquest of England, and its impact on the English language. Discover the integration of Norman culture, the changes in spelling and pronunciation, and the growing resentment of French influences leading up to the conquest.

Jul 31, 2015 • 56min
Episode 65: Norman Dukes and Dialects
The podcast explores the rise of Normandy and the transition of the Norman language. It discusses the influence of Norse words on English and French, the origins of the word 'crook', the rise of Richard the Fearless, and the diplomatic negotiations and linguistic assimilation of the Normans. The podcast also compares the evolution of English and French languages, and explores the early reign of Duke Robert of Normandy.

Jul 10, 2015 • 1h 3min
Episode 64: Feudalism and Early Normans
Explore the history of feudalism in Normandy and its impact on the English language. Discover the rise of knights in the Frankish kingdom and the evolution of the word 'fee'. Learn about the development of the feudal system, castles, and the fracturing of the Carolingian Empire. Dive into the expansion of Normandy and the assimilation of the Normans into Frankish culture.

Jun 25, 2015 • 0sec
Bonus Episode 7: Stuffed Animals
Exploring the origins of animal names in Old English, including dolphin and porpoise. The use of feathers, wool, and cotton for stuffing materials. The evolution of the word 'sad' from its Latin origins to its current meaning. Mention of the upcoming regular episode on the feudal system in Europe.

Jun 2, 2015 • 1h 7min
Episode 63: Restorations and Remedies
This podcast explores the restoration of the West Saxon monarchy and Edward the Confessor's ability to cure sick people. It discusses the origin of the word 'worship' and its association with honoring the divine. It also delves into the ancient Greek theory of the four humors and how it influenced medical practices. The practice of bloodletting in medieval medicine using leeches is examined, along with the connections between honey, meat, wine, and alcoholic beverages throughout history. The podcast also explores the etymology of remedies, the turbulent relationship between Edward and Godwin, and the succession dilemma and competing claims for the English throne.

May 11, 2015 • 1h 6min
Episode 62: Flesh and Blood
This episode explores the power struggles between two mothers vying for the English throne, the origins of body-related words, the first rhyming verse in English poetry, the evolution of gruesome words, the etymology of 'smitten' and 'blemish,' and the three claimants to the English throne.