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.
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**This podcast contains descriptions of sexual violence, enslavement and human sacrifice** "I have never seen more perfect physical specimens, tall as date palms, blond and ruddy. Each man were tattooed with dark-green figures from fingernails to neck." These are the first observations of Vikings from the Arab traveler and diplomat Ibn Fadlan. Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by Dr. Thorir Jonsson Hraundal to explore Ibn Fadlan's extraordinary observations of a Viking ship burial during his journey ...
Edward of Woodstock, famously known as the Black Prince, was held up as the epitomy of Medieval Chivalry. Matt Lewis is joined by the Black Prince's biographer, Michael Jones to discuss King Edward III's eldest son; how he took command of the English vanguard at the Battle of Crécy at just 16 years old, captured the French King at Poitiers, his potential as a king, and the enigmatic origins of his nickname. Gone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis. It was edited by Amy Haddow. The producer is Jo...
Does a four-winged leopard, a woman riding bareback on a monstrous serpent-like beast and giants having a good chat signal the beginning of the apocalypse? Medieval folk certainly thought so. Dr. Eleanor Janega and Prof. James Palmer delight in these terrifying - and sometimes comical - figures and how they served both as religious symbols and as interpretations of worldly evils, reflecting the medieval fascination with the unknown and the stark moral lessons intended by these vivid depictions. ...
Matt Lewis presents a special episode from his podcast Echoes of History on the medieval 'Demon' Samurai. In the world of Assassin's Creed Shadows , the legendary Hattori Hanzo embodies both samurai and shinobi warriors, and earned himself the nickname "The Demon". How did Hattori Hanzo reach such legendary status? How were his loyalties tested as both samurai and shinobi? And what does his story tell us about late Sengoku Japan? Joining Matt Lewis to answer these questions and more are Hiroko Y...
Eric Bloodaxe was an epic Viking Warrior, and he could certainly cut down his enemies, but was he as 'great' in reality as his romantic bad-boy legend? Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by historian John Sadler to discuss Eric Bloodaxe's brutal rise to power, his early displays of violent ambition, and how he earned his infamous nickname during a bloody raid in Scotland. They also revel in the sagas and historical records that shape Eric's legend, shedding light on the turbulent politics of medieval ...
The courageous life of Joanna Plantagenet extends far beyond her mother, Eleanor of Aquitaine, and her 'brave and heroic' brother Richard the Lionheart. She conquers the throne, escapes from a prison, is shipwrecked, goes on crusade, survives bullying brothers and husbands and essentially waits for no man. As Dr. Catherine Hanley puts it; "you don't become Queen and sit about eating chocolates, there's a job to do". Matt Lewis is joined by Cath to celebrate the adventurous and tumultuous life of...
Dr. Eleanor Janega welcomes Russ Williams, author of 'Where the Folk? A Welsh Folklore Road Trip', to delve into the rich tapestry of Welsh folklore. From the medieval legends of King Arthur to mysterious saints, ghostly castles and even a killer ape, they explore why Wales is a hotbed for folklore. Russ discusses the unique oral storytelling tradition in Wales, its intriguing tales of heroes, monsters, and supernatural beings and how these stories reflect cultural and historical realities. Hear...
Imagine walking where those who shaped your deepest beliefs have walked... Matt Lewis is joined by archeologist Professor Jodi Magness to learn how Jerusalem flourished under Byzantine rule and suffered the bloody sieges and dramatic shifts during the Crusades, where Jerusalem saw one of its greatest massacres. They discuss the peaceful transition to Islamic rule and the transformative impact of the construction of the Dome of the Rock. From its significance in early Christian and Islamic times ...
Dr. Eleanor Janega and Matt Lewis bring our series on the Plantagenets to its climax with a look at one of England's most influential monarchs. We pick up the story where we left off in the last episode with Roger Mortimer influencing the boy King Edward III, along with his mother Queen Isabella. But there's so much more to discover about Edward III, who became a pivotal figure in shaping medieval England. Matt talks to Dr. Christopher Briggs and Dr. Andrew Spencer from Cambridge University, dra...
This episode explores the life of Roger Mortimer, from his origins as a Marcher lord to his pivotal role in English dynastic history. It details his military career, strategic marriage, dramatic escape from the Tower of London, and his alliance with Queen Isabella that led to the deposition of King Edward II. The discussion also covers Mortimer's controversial regency, his eventual downfall and execution, and the enduring debate surrounding Edward II's fate.
"Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned." When that woman is Queen Isabella; She-Wolf, the results are catastrophic. As our series on the Plantagenets continues, Dr. Eleanor Janega and historian Kathryn Warner dive into the fascinating life of Queen Isabella of France. From her royal status in France to her tumultuous marriage to Edward II of England, to her strategic alliance - and romance with Roger Mortimer and their joint rebellion to wrestle the Crown from Edward. They discover how a queen'...
Gone Medieval begins a gripping 4 part series exploring scandal, power, and betrayal in the Plantagenet Court. This one of England’s most dramatic royal sagas; from the ill-fated reign of Edward II to the rise of his son, Edward III, Matt Lewis and Dr. Eleanor Janega uncover how love and the Crown do not make good bedfellows. Each episode brings to life the key players in this enthralling saga and today Matt and Eleanor explore the disastrous reign of Edward II. With exclusive behind the scenes ...
Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by historians Andy Drummond and Professor Lyndal Roper to explore the dramatic events of the German Peasants' War, exactly 500 years ago. Together they cover the thrilling narratives of rebellion, heroism, and tragedy as thousands of peasants rose up against their suppressors. Monasteries became targets of their anger and their overflowing stores were pillaged to feed the peasant army. Eleanor discusses the key historical figures, the socio-economic pressures that le...
How did a Viking army transform the very fabric of a nation? In 865, the Viking Great Army landed in East Anglia. For the next 15 years, it shaped England’s destiny with relentless battles, shifting alliances, and the defeat of Anglo-Saxon kings. Unlike earlier Viking raids, this army remained year-round, leaving an indelible mark on England's political, economic, and social landscape. Matt Lewis is joined by Dawn M. Hadley and Julian D. Richards, to discuss the archaeological findings that reve...
Dr. Eleanor Janega reveals the darker side of the Renaissance with Dr. Ada Palmer, challenging the notion that it was a golden age, exposing it as a period of political instability, medical decline, and relentless power struggles. From the propaganda of the era to the destructive reign of Renaissance popes, Eleanor and Ada hugely enjoy dissecting the complexities and darker realities that belie the glorified stories of the Renaissance while contrasting it with the misconceived 'dark' Middle Ages...
Matt Lewis is joined by Professor Camilla Townsend to delve into the story of the Mexica, commonly known as the Aztecs. They unpack the true history behind the label 'Aztecs' and reveal how there's so much more to this civilisation than the outdated misconception of blood-thirsty primitives obsessed with human sacrifice. Professor Townsend shares original Nahuatl sources to show who the Mexica really were, about their humour and humanity through their own voices and how the Spanish conquest affe...
In early Medieval Ireland, supernatural beings moved in and out of our world, unseen. These were the residents of the Otherworld – the síd . Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by historian and novelist Lisa M. Bitel, author of Otherworld , to explore the sexy, funny, and bloody Irish stories that outshine the better-known European myths. From supernatural beings of medieval Ireland to tales of love, gender dynamics, and humorous retellings, these ancient myths connect to modern literature and culture ...
Delving into the aftermath of Charlemagne's death, this episode, with historians Matthew Gabriel and David Perry, uncovers how his vast empire rapidly unraveled due to fierce sibling rivalries and internal conflicts. It challenges modern historical interpretations, particularly 19th-century narratives, and highlights the profound impact of events like the Battle of Fontenoy, which redefined Frankish identity and led to the eventual division of the empire, notably through the often-misunderstood Treaty of Verdun.
Records from Anglo-Saxon England are filled with stories of murder, witchcraft and betrayals of the worst kind, giving the impression that this period was one of lawlessness and rebellion. But how many of these tales are true? How do they square with a period known to have had lengthy, detailed law codes and harsh punishments for unlawful killing? Dr. Eleanor Janega meets historian and author Annie Whitehead who has collated some 100 cases from regicides to robberies gone wrong, to ask what, if ...
What can grave goods tell us about the lives of people 1,500 years ago? Matt Lewis delves into the early medieval world through the lens of burials with Professor Jo Buckberry, discussing how the treasures found in Anglo-Saxon graves changed over the years and provide insights into the cultural, political, and familial dynamics of a fascinating period. Matt is also joined by Professor Duncan Sayer, lead archeologist at a secret-location dig has revealed an Anglo-Saxon cemetery full of stunning w...
What do the terms 'medieval' and 'early medieval' truly mean? When did these periods begin and end? Why is it inaccurate - even offensive - to refer to them as the 'Dark Ages'? Dr. Eleanor Janega and Matt Lewis put their heads together to demystify the terminology used to define different historical periods and clarify some common misconceptions. Gone Medieval is presented by Dr. Eleanor Janega and Matt Lewis. Edited by Rob Weinberg. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff. All music used is cour...
Matt Lewis dives deep into the life and exploits of Leif Erikson, debating whether he was the first European to set foot in North America. Joined by Dr. Eleanor Barraclough, they explore the sagas of this intriguing Viking figure, the archaeological evidence supporting Norse exploration, and the fascinating cultural legacy that has turned Leif into a symbol of discovery and identity in America. Gone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis and edited by Amy Haddow. The producer is Joseph Knight. The ...
How did medieval cities manage and regulate sex work? Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by Dr. Jamie Page to discuss the lives of sex workers, the operation of municipal brothels, and the legal and societal challenges these women faced. They uncover detailed case studies and the broader implications of sex work regulations across medieval Europe contrasting the experiences of sex workers in different regions and highlighting the unique practices in the Holy Roman Empire compared to England. Gone Medi...
Matt Lewis is joined by Professor Brian A. Catlos to explore the nearly eight centuries of Al Andalus, Islamic Spain. From a daring invasion in 711 led by Tariq ibn Ziyad to the emergence of great cities like Cordoba, Matt and Brian delve into the multicultural experiment where Muslims, Christians, and Jews coexisted, blending art, science, and culture, and they debunk some pretty huge fake news about Charlemagne. Gone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis and edited by Amy Haddow. The producer is...
Who built the imposing castles of Poland and Lithuania? Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by archeologist Aleksander Pluskowski to discuss the riveting history of the Teutonic Knights, to find out how a small military-religious order evolved during the Third Crusade into a formidable power controlling vast territories in the Baltic. They explore the nuanced differences between the Teutonic Knights and other Crusading groups, their complex relationships with pagans, their dramatic militarisation and h...
Matt Lewis, joined by Dr. Eleanor Janega, explores the Halstow Wassail—a modern iteration of an ancient tradition rooted deep in medieval folklore. They visit Grey's Cider Farm in Devon and dive into the unique ceremony of wassailing, where people sing to apple trees to bless them for a bountiful harvest. Featuring exclusive insights from Theo Grey, the 13th generation cider maker, they uncover the historic and communal aspects of this revived ritual, how the tradition has evolved while maintain...
Did you know that Magna Carta wasn't originally intended as a beacon of civil liberties? Dr. Eleanor Janega is joined by Steven Franklin of Royal Holloway, University of London to delve into the myths and realities of the Magna Carta. They discuss how this foundational document, sealed by King John in 1215, spawned iconic clauses like trial by jury, how it's still referenced today and why lesser-known yet impactful documents like the Charter of the Forest might deserve more attention. Eleanor an...
Nothing good is ever said about King John, a strong contender for the title of Worst Medieval King of England. Was the King who signed Magna Carta - albeit reluctantly - really as bad as history paints him? Matt Lewis sets out to put the record straight with David Carpenter, Professor of Medieval History at King's College London. Gone Medieval is presented by Matt Lewis. The audio editor and producer is Rob Weinberg. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff. All music used is courtesy of Epidemic ...
Lady Macbeth is best known to us as Shakespeare’s scheming, sleepwalking villain. But, as with most of his so-called history plays, Shakespeare’s version of the Macbeths is largely fictional. Dr. Eleanor Janega talks to the best-selling crime writer - and Gone Medieval fan - Val McDermid who has dragged the truth about the real Queen Macbeth out of the shadows to reveal a woman caught up in the patriarchal prejudices and vicious political intrigues of her time. Gone Medieval is presented by Dr. ...
Ever wondered why the medieval world was so captivated by saints? Matt Lewis welcomes in the new year with Amy Jeffs, author of 'Saints, A New Legendary of Heroes, Humans and Magic,' to unveil the mysteries and miracles that made saints central to medieval life. They delve into the legend of Edward the Confessor, recounting his miraculous encounter with a beggar who turned out to be St. John the Evangelist. Amy also shares the spellbinding tales of St. Bridget's miraculous milk churn and St. Pat...
