Not Just the Tudors

Discover the captivating life of Isabella d'Este with Professor Suzannah Lipscomb and acclaimed novelist and historian Sarah Dunant. They discuss Isabella's incredible journey from a well-educated noblewoman to the First Lady of the Renaissance, how she mastered political strategy, diplomatic finesse, and art patronage while navigating the treacherous Italian wars.Suzannah and Sarah uncover intimate details of Isabella's unconventional marriage and her groundbreaking influence in the art world as she pursued Michelangelo for the perfect portrait with a unique blend of charm and ruthlessness, which made her one of history's most compelling women.More:Katherine of Aragon: England's First Renaissance Queenhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/6cDqkgk8aoDAUn6KxwlX7UMichelangelohttps://open.spotify.com/episode/3ocKCFinOdaCZYfBtHoMXnPresented by Professor Suzannah Lipscomb. The researcher is Alice Smith, audio editor is Amy Haddow and the producer is Rob Weinberg. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Not Just the Tudors 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://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on

In this engaging discussion, historian and author Victoria Shepherd sheds light on the Cheapside Hoard, an extraordinary collection of Elizabethan jewelry unearthed in 1912. She explores its glittering origins, revealing how the diverse treasures reflect the socio-economic and cultural dynamics of their time. The mysteries surrounding the hoard's burial and the intriguing life of its discoverer, Stony Jack, provide a fascinating backdrop. Shepherd also links the jewels to significant historical events, including colonialism and personal ambition, capturing the allure of this hidden treasure.

In the second of our special episodes exploring the rise and fall of Sir Thomas More, Professor Suzannah Lipscomb and Dr. Joanne Paul chart the great Tudor statesman's demise. Despite his silence about Henry VIII's self-proclamation as Supreme Head of the Church of England, More was executed for treason on 6 July 1535. What were the events leading up to his fall from grace? How did More's position impact the King? And what can we now make of this contradictory character and his contribution to Renaissance thought?Presented by Professor Suzannah Lipscomb. The researcher is Alice Smith, edited and produced by Rob Weinberg. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Not Just the Tudors is a History Hit podcast.More:Thomas More on Film: The HIstorian's Verdict >Wolf Hall - Who's Who >Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries including Suzannah Lipscomb's series on the Dissolution of the Monasteries, plus 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://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Joanne Paul, a Professor in Intellectual History and author of 'Thomas More, A Life and Death in Tudor England,' delves into the complexities of Thomas More's life. She examines his dual portrayal as a saintly figure and a controversial zealot, unraveling his profound influence on modern Europe. The conversation also highlights More's personal tragedies, his political rise under Henry VIII, and the societal tensions of his time, including the May Day riots. Join them as they navigate More's legacy, from 'Utopia' to his tragic downfall.

Garry J. Shaw, an Egyptologist and author of 'Cryptic', joins Professor Suzannah Lipscomb to delve into the fascinating world of John Dee, an advisor to Queen Elizabeth I. They explore Dee’s mystifying interactions with angels through his diaries and the attempts to communicate with the celestial. Topics include the complex partnership with alchemist Edward Kelly, the creation of Enochian magic, humorous celestial conversations, and the dramatic fallout from a scandalous wife-swapping order. This discussion uncovers a rich tapestry of mysticism and intrigue.

Philip II of Spain - the most powerful monarch of the early modern period - was married to Queen Mary Tudor from 1554 until her death in 1558. But Philip was not merely Mary's King Consort. Rather he was King of England, co-ruler with Mary. But Philip's character and central role in the English monarchy was forever blackened by anti-Catholic versions of Tudor history. In this edition of Not Just the Tudors, first released in October 2021, Professor Suzannah Lipscomb talks to Professor Gonzalo Velasco Berenguer, whose ground-breaking research shows that the reign of Mary and Philip was much more than an anomalous glitch on England's journey towards Protestantism.MOREMary I: What if She'd Lived? >Presented by Professor Suzannah Lipscomb. Edited and produced by Rob Weinberg. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Not Just the Tudors 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 >

In 1518 one woman's mysterious dance sparked an uncontrollable epidemic, leading up to 400 people to dance wildly for weeks.Professor Suzannah Lipscomb is joined by Dr. Lynneth J. Miller Renberg to explore the bizarre Dancing Plague, discussing the theories of demonic possession, divine punishment, and social protest, finding out how the city struggled to contain this strange phenomenon. The medical missteps, and cultural tensions fueled one of history's most puzzling outbreaks.MOREHow to Survive the Plaguehttps://open.spotify.com/episode/01e8GRcHkZuHjmUTvlIwRxPresented by Professor Suzannah Lipscomb. The researcher is Alice Smith, audio editor is Amy Haddow and the producer is Rob Weinberg. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.Theme music from All3Media. Other music courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.Not Just the Tudors 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://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on

Claire Mitchell, Advocate and King's Counsel, and Zoe Venditozzi, Writer and campaigner, dive into the dark history of witch trials in Scotland, highlighting the tragic fate of over 4,000 accused individuals. They discuss the societal and legal conditions that fueled these hunts, including the role of James VI and the psychological dynamics at play. The horrific torture methods and coercive confessions reveal deep-rooted gender issues, while their advocacy work seeks justice and acknowledgment for the victims. Their conversation emphasizes the importance of remembering these injustices.

Dr. Daniel Swift, an Associate Professor at Northeastern University, shares fascinating insights on the formative years of Shakespeare's career. He explores the significance of London’s first playhouse and the impact of James Burbage's vision on the theater scene. The discussion reveals how social dynamics and economic realities of Elizabethan England shaped Shakespeare’s works. Listeners dive into the collaborative bond between Shakespeare and actor Richard Burbage, illuminating their vital role in the playwright's evolution.

In this insightful discussion, historian Nicola Tallis, author of "Young Elizabeth: The Making of the Virgin Queen," delves into the tumultuous early life of Elizabeth I. Born to Anne Boleyn, she faced uncertainties as her legitimacy was questioned. Tallis explores Elizabeth's relationships, particularly the impact of her stepmother Catherine Parr and the scandal involving Thomas Seymour. The conversation highlights how Elizabeth transformed from a vulnerable princess into a politically savvy ruler, navigating both personal trauma and intricate court dynamics.