
The British History Podcast
The BHP is a chronological retelling of the history of Britain with a particular focus upon the lives of the people. You won’t find a dry recounting of dates and battles here, but instead you’ll learn about who these people were and how their desires, fears, and flaws shaped the scope of this island at the edge of the world. And some of those desires are downright scandalous.
Latest episodes

Aug 22, 2024 • 13min
Medieval Magic Sample: We Read the Latin
Ever wondered about magic's role in medieval life? Discover quirky cures for jealousy involving a leek! Dive into the Wolfstern Handbook, where castle management meets magical remedies. Explore the tension between magical traditions and Christian beliefs, revealing how practitioners finessed their faith with mystical elements. Uncover the fascinating relationship between clergy and magic, including monks safeguarding magical texts while healers tackled supernatural woes. It's a whimsical journey through the enchanting past!

Aug 14, 2024 • 40min
455 – Odo’s Rebellion: Lord of the Flies
Dive into the turbulent world of Odo’s Rebellion, where military tactics and leadership take center stage. Tensions rise as Bishop Odo faces off against King Rufus’s advancing forces. Discover the chaos of a siege at Pevensie, marked by supply shortages and shifting loyalties. Experience the dark realities of rebellion, including an overwhelming fly infestation that tests morale. Finally, explore the brutal justice meted out in Norman England, revealing the political turmoil and the fates of rebellious nobles like Odo.

Aug 2, 2024 • 34min
454 – Odo’s Rebellion: Worst Easter Ever
In Easter 1088, chaos unfolds as pirate attacks threaten the English coast and powerful figures are suspiciously absent from court. Bishop Odo orchestrates a rebellion against King Rufus, leading to strategic attacks and shifting loyalties. The atmosphere becomes increasingly tense with insurrections and foreign threats. As tensions rise, key battles emerge, notably over Bath, prompting the king to maneuver strategically against invading forces. This turbulent period showcases the fragile dynamics of power and the challenges reigning over medieval England.

Jul 26, 2024 • 32min
453 – Odo’s Rebellion: The Cold War
Explore the tangled web of power dynamics in Norman society after William the Conqueror's death. Discover how primogeniture shaped struggles for younger sons and social stability. Uncover the strategic plots of Norman nobles aiming to dethrone King Rufus amidst fierce rivalries and shifting loyalties. Dive into the crucial role of sheriffs during 11th-century rebellions and the intricate political maneuvers leading to conflict spearheaded by Bishop Odo. It's a tale of ambition, intrigue, and the fight for power!

Jul 8, 2024 • 19min
Medieval Medicine Sample: Trotula Edition
Explore medieval medicine and Trotula's approach to childbirth, highlighting the involvement of women practitioners in healthcare. Discuss the perception of childbirth as a life event, historical viewpoints on women's bodies, and the belief in womb suffocation with herbal remedies and magical spells.

Jul 2, 2024 • 35min
452 – Odo? Oh Yes.
Exploration of power struggles and political intrigues during the turbulent period of William I and William II. Focus on Uncle Odo's rise, Duke Robert's ambitious brother Henry, and the complex dynamics in both Normandy and England. Tensions escalate as alliances shift and the stage is set for war.

4 snips
Jun 25, 2024 • 37min
451 – The Lucky Few
The podcast delves into the historical analysis of a character's passing in the Norman aristocracy, highlighting themes of wealth and greed. It discusses King William's tax policies and their impact on culture, power dynamics, and the concentration of wealth. The transition of wealth and power under King Rufus's rule is analyzed, along with his political strategies and family dynamics.

Jun 14, 2024 • 35min
450 – Begin With A Bang
Exploration of the chaos in Normandy after William's death, with family rivalries and power struggles. Details on the neglected state of William's body and the struggles for succession. The gruesome funeral of William the Conqueror and the coronation of King William Rufus II.

May 30, 2024 • 4min
449 – Chapter Ten: The Boys
Explore the power struggles and conflicts between Rufus and Robert II of Normandy after William's death in 449 - Chapter Ten: The Boys.

May 25, 2024 • 60min
448 – The Death of William the Conqueror
The story of William and the conquest has been a long road, and I’ve heard from some of you that this season has been challenging to listen to. I get it. No matter how awful William is he never seems to face any real consequences…
The post 448 – The Death of William the Conqueror first appeared on The British History Podcast.
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