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In the final episode of our Norman Kings series, Matt Lewis returns to explore the later years of Henry I’s reign—and the succession crisis that followed his death. The White Ship disaster took Henry’s only legitimate son and heir, along with many others. Henry remarried and named his daughter, Empress Matilda, as his heir, but his plans were complicated by political rivalries, family tensions, and a difficult marriage. When Henry died in 1135, Matilda was far from England. His nephew Stephen seized the opportunity and was crowned king, setting the stage for the Anarchy. Join us for a lively conversation about Henry’s shifting plans, the legacy of the White Ship, and the uncertain path from one Norman king to the next. -- If you enjoy this podcast please consider becoming a patron and supporting me on this journey! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Matt Lewis

I'm not sure why I'm a bit quieter this time, but it's more important to hear the guest well, so I hope it's still enjoyable for you! -- What did Tudor England have in common with a thriving Baltic city hundreds of miles away? In this episode, Rebecca welcomes back renowned historian Rev. Professor Diarmaid MacCulloch for a fascinating journey to Riga, the capital of modern-day Latvia, and a city with surprising connections to Tudor England. From medieval crusading knights and powerful merchant networks to the spread of the Protestant Reformation, Riga's history offers a fresh perspective on the world the Tudors inhabited. Discover how English merchants traded cloth for furs, timber, and amber, why Riga embraced Lutheranism long before Henry VIII broke with Rome, and how ideas traveled across Europe alongside valuable goods. The conversation also ventures into the religious ambitions of Edward VI, the influence of Thomas Cromwell, and why Tudor England wasn't nearly as important on the European stage as we sometimes imagine. Join Rebecca and Professor MacCulloch as they look beyond England's borders to uncover a remarkable city and its place in the wider Tudor world. Previous episode with Diarmaid: Lower than the Angels: A History of Sex and Christianity -- Enjoy the podcast? Please consider becoming one of my patrons - just like Thomas More was for Holbein when he came to England. By supporting me you'll get commercial-free episodes, early access, and exclusive content! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Rev. Prof. Diarmaid MacCulloch

What would you rather do: survive a bout of sweating sickness, have an affair with Henry VIII, or serve as his Groom of the Stool? And believe it or not, those aren't even the worst options! In this episode of Off the Record we're having a little fun with Tudor history in a game of Tudor Would You Rather! From questionable medical treatments and disgusting Tudor delicacies to royal secrets, political betrayals, and life-or-death decisions, I'm faced with a series of impossible choices. Would I rather wash my hair with urine or sleep on a straw mattress? Whose royal temper tantrum would I be willing to endure? And which private Tudor conversation would I most want to overhear? Some choices are surprisingly easy. Others require a little historical reasoning. And a few are downright horrifying! Listen in, have a laugh, and play along! I'd love to know what YOU would choose. Let me know which Tudor dilemma you'd find the hardest to answer! -- Enjoy the show? Head over to my Patreon page, join the conversation, and gain access to some pretty cool content! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty -- Co-Hosts: Rebecca Larson Amy McElroy

Henry I was the cleverest of William the Conqueror’s sons—or at least, he always seemed to be a step ahead of his brothers. But intelligence and ambition came with a ruthless streak. Matt Lewis joins me to explore Henry’s tangled relationship with William Rufus and Robert Curthose, his swift seizure of the English throne, and the rebellions, alliances, and brutal acts of justice that helped him hold on to power. By 1120, Henry seems to have defeated or outmaneuvered every rival. Then, on the journey home, disaster awaits. This is Part One of our look at Henry I in the Norman Kings series. -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Matt Lewis

What happens when ambition becomes more powerful than loyalty, love, or even fear? Bestselling historical novelist Philippa Gregory returns to the podcast to discuss her latest novel, Royal Witch, and the extraordinary women at the heart of its story. Our conversation centers on Eleanor Cobham, a woman whose determination to rise through the ranks of medieval society brought her dangerously close to the English throne. But Eleanor's story is only part of the picture. We also explore the remarkable Jacqueline of Hainault, who fought to reclaim her inheritance, and Margery Jourdemaine, whose association with witchcraft would have devastating consequences. Philippa and I discuss the complicated nature of ambition, the fine line between love and hatred, and why she enjoys writing women who aren't necessarily likable. We also explore the medieval understanding of witchcraft and astrology, the troubled childhood of Henry VI, and how Philippa's visits to historic locations help bring her fictional worlds to life. And, of course, we discuss the fascinating challenge of separating historical fact from fiction. Join us for a conversation about powerful women, dangerous ambitions, and the stories history has nearly forgotten. -- Buy Royal Witch on Blackwells! -- Support this podcast and join a growing community of history lovers over on Patreon - https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Dr. Philippa Gregory

Who would survive just about anything? Who could talk their way out of an execution? And which medieval figure would be an absolute disaster if left in charge of a rebellion? In this episode of Off the Record, Rebecca Larson and Amy McElroy are back with another round of Medieval Superlatives, putting some of history's most fascinating (and occasionally questionable) characters to the test. From William Marshal and Isabella of France to George, Duke of Clarence, and a few unexpected contenders, we're debating who deserves the title of best survivor, worst rebel, and everything in between. Expect plenty of laughter, a few disagreements, some questionable choices, and the usual historical chaos as we decide who's most likely to come out on top—and who's destined to make a complete mess of things. Think you have better answers? Listen along and let us know who you'd choose! -- If you like this podcast, join the TD&B group over on Patreon. https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty -- Co-Hosts: Rebecca Larson Amy McElroy

William Rufus is often remembered as a difficult king who fell out with the Church—and died when an arrow struck him in the New Forest. But there was far more to his reign than its dramatic ending. Matt Lewis joins Rebecca to explore William’s military successes, repeated rebellions, and tangled rivalry with his brothers Robert and Henry. They also look at William’s conflict with Archbishop Anselm, his campaigns in Scotland, and how the churchmen who wrote the chronicles shaped his reputation. Then comes the question that has puzzled people for centuries: was William’s death really an accident? With Robert away on crusade and Henry moving quickly to secure the treasury and crown, the circumstances invite suspicion. Join Rebecca and Matt for a lively look at the king, the family rivalries, and the forest mystery that changed the course of English history. -- If you enjoy my podcast and want to help support its continuation, please consider joining my Patreon community! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Matthew Lewis

William conquered England, but what about the women who helped shape his dynasty? Rebecca Larson welcomes historian Sharon Bennett Connolly to explore Matilda of Flanders and her daughters—their lives, influence, and the stories that too often get overshadowed by the men. From the questionable tales of William and Matilda’s courtship to her role governing Normandy, we discover a queen whose authority extended well beyond her marriage. We also meet their daughters, especially Adela and Cecilia, whose lives open up a fascinating discussion about crusading, education, and the power women could exercise within a convent. With plenty of laughter along the way, we consider how these women have been remembered—and why understanding their world means looking beyond our modern assumptions. Sharon's book on the subject - Silk and the Sword: The Women of the Norman Conquest -- Love history and looking for a group of likeminded people? Head over to my Patreon page and join the conversation - whether you sign up as a free member or paid member, you're sure to lots of information and friends! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Sharon Bennett Connolly

What’s a superlative? It’s a playful way of asking who is most likely to do something—and the Tudor court gives us plenty of possibilities. In this episode of Off the Record, Amy and Rebecca return to the Tudors with questions about survival, rebellion, and what court life might look like in the modern world. Who could talk their way out of an execution? Who would become an influencer, run a secret group chat, or survive a zombie apocalypse? Bring your own answers, because you’ll probably have a few opinions—and so do we. -- Join me over on Patreon where you'll not only find commercial-free episode but FREE articles on topics you're sure to enjoy! We also have a monthly chat called the Historical Reading Room where we discuss what we're reading! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty -- Co-Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Amy McElroy

William the Conqueror’s reign was marked by both ruthless force and careful efforts to secure his rule. In this episode, we look at the Harrying of the North, the resistance that gathered at Ely around Hereward, and William’s attempts to bring England’s landholders and resources under royal control. The Hereward stories include some memorable episodes—though parts of his daring exploits come from later legend. We also explore the Domesday survey and the Salisbury oath, then turn to William’s final days and the division of his lands among his sons: Normandy for Robert, England for William Rufus, and money for Henry. What kind of legacy did the Conqueror leave—and what tensions did his settlement create for the next generation? -- Support Rebecca and the podcast over on Patreon and join a growing community of history lovers! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Matthew Lewis

What was Elizabeth I really like—and how much of the queen we think we know was carefully created? Historian Dr. Carole Levin joins Rebecca Larson to explore Elizabeth’s strengths and shortcomings, her carefully managed public image, and the gap between historical fact and the stories later generations told about her. They also discuss Elizabeth’s relationship with Mary, Queen of Scots, the ways historians recover women’s voices, and how magic and superstition shaped life in Renaissance England. From women’s power to the legends that grew around Elizabeth after her death, this conversation looks at the queen behind the image—and the many people whose stories history has left at the margins. -- Are you looking for a community of history lovers to join? Check out my Patreon!! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Dr. Carole Levin

We’re handing out medieval superlatives! Think of the titles in a school yearbook: a superlative singles someone out as the “most” or “best” in a particular category. This time, we’re choosing people from medieval history, comparing our answers, and discussing the personalities, relationships, and reputations behind them. Some choices might seem obvious; others may surprise you. Listen along and see whether you agree—or have someone else in mind! -- If you like this podcast and want to either support it or join our growing community of history lovers, please head over to my Patreon page: https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty -- Co-Host: Rebecca Larson & Amy McElroy

Margaret of Austria’s life took her from the Burgundian court to France, Spain, and the Netherlands. Along the way, she faced a broken betrothal, two marriages, and the demands of a powerful family. She also became one of the most capable political figures of her time. In this episode of Dr. Emma and Me, Dr. Emma Cahill Marrón joins me again to follow Margaret’s travels and explore how the places she lived shaped her. We talk about her role in raising the future Charles V, her negotiations with Louise of Savoy, and the remarkable church and tomb she commissioned at Brou. -- Where did Eleanor of Aquitaine’s life take her, and what can those places tell us about her? Join me and Dr. Emma Luisa Cahill Marrón for Traveling with Eleanor of Aquitaine, a five-part course following her journey across medieval Europe. Click the link for course details and registration! https://travelwitheleanor.eventbrite.com -- Join my growing community of history lovers over on Patreon! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty-- Co-Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma Cahill Marrón.

Hans Holbein painted some of the most familiar faces of the Tudor court. But what did he think of the people sitting for him—and could a portrait reveal more than its subject intended? I’m joined by bestselling author Wendy Holden to discuss The Queen’s Painter, her historical novel that places Holbein at the center of a plot to avenge Anne Boleyn. We talk about his imagined alliance with Thomas Wyatt, Henry VIII’s search for a fourth wife, and the portraits of Christina of Denmark and Anne of Cleves that helped inspire the story. Wendy also shares her intriguing interpretation of The Ambassadors and explains why she wanted to look beyond Holbein’s genius to the man who had to make his way through a dangerous court. After this conversation, you may find yourself looking at those familiar Tudor portraits a little differently. A free article I wrote about it: https://bit.ly/4z3bk2t https://www.wendyholden.net/ Buy The Queen's Painter on Blackwells (free shipping) -- Like this podcast? Consider joining our growing community of history lovers and get COMMERCIAL-FREE episodes, EARLY ACCESS, and EXCLUSIVE CONTENT: https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Wendy Holden

Who would you want at your side in a Tudor court—and who would make you regret walking through the door? In this episode of Off the Record, Amy and Rebecca hand out superlatives to some of history’s most memorable figures. There are strong opinions, a few difficult choices, and plenty of reasons to argue with us. Listen in, then tell us who you would have picked. We can't wait to hear your answers! -- Join the community over on Patreon! Not only will you join a great group of history lovers, but you'll also receive COMMERCIAL-FREE episodes, EARLY ACCESS, and EXCLUSIVE CONTENT! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty -- Co-Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Amy McElroy