Medieval Archives

Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah from the Medieval Archives! It's the holiday season and the Medieval Archives Podcast is bringing you an episode jam packed with holiday music! The intro is short, but if you want to skip right to the music go to minute 1:30. Thanks for subscribnig to the podcast this year! There...MAP#23 - Christmas Special is a post from: Medieval Archives The post MAP#23 - Christmas Special appeared first on Medieval Archives.

We are embarking on a new podcasting adventure! Medieval Tales Podcast will be released every Tuesday and Thursday and feature medieval themed classic novels. The first book in the series is: The Black Arrow by Robert Louis Stevenson The Black Arrow: A Tale of Two Roses is the 1888 historical adventure novel. Set in fifteenth century England during the Wars of the Roses, the story revolves around Richard (Dick) Shelton as he becomes knighted, rescues his beloved Joanna Sedley, and finds justice for the slaughter of his father, Harry Shelton. An outlaw named Ellis Duckworth equipped with a black arrow as his trademark weapon convinces Dick that his own personal guardian, Sir Daniel Brackley, has been disloyal. As a result, Dick helps a fellowship of outlaws called The Black Arrow to defeat Brackley and win back his lady. *** Future episodes of Medieval Tales Podcast won't appear in this feed. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any exciting episodes! https://medievalarchives.com/medieval-tales-podcast ***

Welcome to the Medieval Tales podcast, well, to the trailer at least. Do you love reading classic novels set in the Middle Ages. Stories of brave Knights and epic battles, royal intrigue and life in a castle?  Is it getting harder to find  time to sit down and read a good book? With all the cooking and cleaning and commuting. Maybe you have the time and aren’t sure what to read next. Whatever the situation, Medieval Tales Podcast has you covered. We’ve curated some of the best Medieval themed classic novels for your listening pleasure. Now you can follow along as The White Company, a band of fearless archers fight in the Hundred Years War. Or listen to the exploits of Richard the Lionhearted as he battles Saladin in the 3rd Crusade. Medieval Tales Podcast will be arriving in your podcast player on 11 Jan 2024. Subscribe and follow now so you don’t miss an episode.  Head over to MedievalTalesPodcast.com to follow all the medieval adventures.

It’s Halloween again, the air turns colder, the nights grow darker and spirits roam in the shadows. On this year’s Halloween episode we are traveling to the Emerald Isle. In 1324 Kilkenny, Ireland witnessed it’s first witchcraft trial and the first execution carried out by burning at the stake. Alice Kyteler was a popular, beautiful inn keeper who's husbands had a bad habit of dying mysterious deaths. Her fourth and final husband, certain Alice was poisoning him, told his children and the church. The zealous Bishop of Ossory, Bishop Ledrede, took up the case. He was a firm believer the devil walked among the people and made it his duty to banish evil. Ledrede beleived Alice Kyteler was not only a witch, but the leader of a coven of witches based in the Kilkenny area. Alice Kyteler had powerful allies from her four marriages and her successful business. When Bishop Ledrede tried to have her arrested the tables were turned and Ledrede was thrown in jail. When Ledrede was released from prison he resumed his case against Kyteler and her followers. The charges brought against Kyteler were murder, heresy, seeking advice from demons, sacrificing animals, making potions and having sexual relations with a demon. Serious charges to be sure. Could Ledrede prove them in court? Would Alice Kyteler be burned at the stake as a witch?

Mudlarks A mudlark is defined as someone who digs or searches in in river or harbor mud for items of value. The term was widely used in 18th and 19th century London. Mudlarks would search the shores of the River Thames during low tide to find valuable items and sell them for a profit. Being a mudlark back then was usually a job for those in extreme poverty. Today things are different. Mudlarks in the 21st century aren't finding and selling items to survive, they are helping document and preserve the history of London. On this episode of the Medieval Archives Podcast we are joined by two modern day Mudlarks, Jason Sandy and Nick Stevens. They have over twenty years experience searching the foreshore of the River Thames. Thames Mudlarking Jason and Nick share their experiences mudlarking and the amazing artifacts they've found throughout the years. They also share their vision for the Thames Museum, a place to showcase all the great items found in the mud of the river Thames. For more information about the Thames Museum visit ThamesMuseum.org you can also donate to the museum and help the vision become a reality. Over the years they've found artifacts from all time periods; a Mesolithic ’Thames Pick’ flint adze, a Roman Hair Pin, Roman coins, medieval pilgrim badges, medieval gadling, Victorian coins and maybe most shockingly, the skull of a 12 year old girl dated back to 1730. About the Book This beautifully illustrated book tells the captivating story of London and its inhabitants through the extraordinary assortment of artefacts discovered by mudlarks along the banks of the River Thames. The foreshore of the River Thames is an enchanting and mystical place where time seems to have stopped. As the murky tidalwaters of the river slowly recede, the exposed riverbed becomes the longest archaeological site in Britain. Jason Sandy, Nick Stevens and other mudlarks can often be found combing the shoreline at low tide searching for historical treasures concealed by the mud: from megalodon teeth to Roman coins, Georgian shoe buckles and shrapnel from the Blitz. You never know what you might find in the Thames! Over the years, mudlarks have found a vast array of historically significant artefacts, deepening our understanding of London’s past. This fascinating new book is packed with 160 incredible photographs of the intriguing objects discovered by over 50 mudlarks. Each artefact offers a clue to the past and provides a glimpse into London’s rich history and its people. Thames Mudlarking: Searching for London's Lost Treasure is available online at: Bloomsbury Publishing Website Amazon (affiliate link) Barnes & Noble Target.com Jason Sandy is an American architect and developer who moved to London in 2007. A member of the Society of Thames Mudlarks, he has written many articles about mudlarking, as well as lecturing, appearing on national television and having an active presence on Instagram at @jasonmudlark.   Nick Stevens is a professional photographer, a member of the Society of Thames Mudlarks, and can be found on Instagram at @rockthemudlark. He appeared in all three seasons of the History Channel’s Mud Men and co-founded the Thames Museum, which will tell the story of London through mudlarking finds.

When people think of the Middle Ages one of the first images that pops into their head is a knight in shining armor. Knights are synonymous with the Middle Ages. Slaying dragons, saving damsels in distress, but beyond the fairy tales are the real life knights. Men who sacrificed and endlessly trained to earn the title of Knight. On this episode of the Medieval Archives podcast I’m joined by historian and author Christopher Gravett to discuss The Medieval Knight. Chris is a former curator at the Royal Armouries, Tower of London, and an expert in the field of medieval arms, armor and warfare. He also worked with numerous TV series and movies as a historical advisor including The Conquerors, Braveheart and Ivanhoe. Chris even advised Terry Jones, best known as part of Monty Python, for his books. Chris has some fascinating ‘behind-the-scenes’ stories. Chris’s new book The Medieval Knight covers the evolution of the knight over 300 years, from the early Norman Knights of William the Conqueror to the gradual decline in the 15th century. We discuss a variety of topics including how knights trained, how armor evolved over the years and tournaments. Did you know a king and a prince were killed while jousting in a tournament! Listen in to find out. You can read my review of The Medieval Knight here. It is a fantastic book! Grab a copy today and enjoy the well researched history and the amazing pictures that help visualize the weapons and armor.

The witching season is upon us once again. Past Halloweens we’ve covered a Medieval Serial Killer, Medieval Zombies and more. All the Halloween episodes are available on the Halloween Podcast page. This Halloween we are looking at haunted castles from the Middle Ages. Castles We’ll visit a handful of castles around England and one in Ireland. Most of the castles today are in Northern England and one isn’t a castle. We’ll start out at Whitby Abbey and make our way north to Alnwick Castle and the infamous Alnwick Vampire! The Alnwick Vampire spread death and pestilence wherever it roamed. It was even recorded by medieval chronicler William of Newburgh. Then we’ll look at a castle dubbed ‘The Most Haunted Castle” in England, Chillingham Castle. Filled with the ghosts of hundreds of Scottish prisoners, an evil torturer and an innocent boy caught in the middle of political betrayal. The last two stops on our trip are on the Emerald Isle at Malahide Castle talking about perhaps, the first evil clown and ending up in London at the massive Tower of London! The Tower of London is home to some of the most famous ghosts in England including the Princes in the Tower and Queen Anne Boleyn. The night before her execution, Queen Anne wrote her death poem, which you can read below. I found a beautiful rendition of the poem set to music in the episode. Queen Anne Boleyn Death Poem: Oh Death, rock me asleep, Bring me to quiet rest, Let pass my weary guiltless ghost Out of my careful breast. Toll on, thou passing bell; Ring out my doleful knell; Let thy sound my death tell. Death doth draw nigh; There is no remedy. My pains who can express? Alas, they are so strong; My dolour will not suffer strength My life for to prolong. Toll on, thou passing bell; Ring out my doleful knell; Let thy sound my death tell. Death doth draw nigh; There is no remedy. Alone in prison strong I wait my destiny. Woe worth this cruel hap that I Should taste this misery! Toll on, thou passing bell; Ring out my doleful knell; Let thy sound my death tell. Death doth draw nigh; There is no remedy. Farewell, my pleasures past, Welcome, my present pain! I feel my torments so increase That life cannot remain. Cease now, thou passing bell; Rung is my doleful knell; For the sound my death doth tell. Death doth draw nigh; There is no remedy. The Tower of London also had one of the craziest executions recorded. A novice executioner missed his mark and chased an elder lady around hacking her to death. As comical as it sounds it as a gruesome death seen by over 150 witnesses. Grab some candy and get ready for a chilling tour of haunted castles! Haunted Castles covered in this episode: Whitby Abbey Alnwick Castle Chillingham Castle Malahide Castle The Tower of London Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: https://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. Direct link to the MP3 file | Apple Podcast Feed | RSS Podcast Feed The intro music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

The Viking Age​ VIKINGS! The scourge of the early middle ages. Vikings raided England, Ireland and Europe with a ferocity never seen before. On this episode we’re going to look at a few Vikings that you may not have heard of, or know much about. One of them should be taught in every school in America and Europe. They are portrayed as blood thirsty killers who pillage and plunder, but they were also adventuring explorers who discovered new lands and some even set aside their Viking ways to adapt in new societies. Viking Expansion​ Further Reading​ If you are interested in learning more about The Viking Age and Viking warriors below is a list of books I used while researching this episode. Brownworth, Lars. The Sea Wolves: A History of the Vikings, 2014. Castleden, Rodney. Vikings: Raiders, Traders and Masters of the Sea, 2015. Clements, J. M. Vikings. Lost Worlds. New York: Metro Books, 2012. Kunz, Keneva, ed. The Vinland Sagas: The Icelandic Sagas about the First Documented Voyages across the North Atlantic ; the Saga of the Greenlanders and Eirik the Red’s Saga. New ed. Penguin Classics. London: Penguin Books, 2008. Logan, Francis Donald. The Vikings in History. 2. ed., reprinted. London: Routledge, 1998. Disclaimer: Affiliate links are used on this site. While they don't cost you anything when you purchase through them they help support Medieval Archives. Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. Apple Podcasts | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The intro music was provided by Tim Rayburn.  It is available at Magnatune.com

John II: King of France 1350-1364 King John II of France, called The Good. John ruled during a tumultuous time, the Plague was in full force killing large parts of France’s population, the Hundred Years’ War was raging and France was in financial trouble. With all that going on how did John get dubbed, The Good? We’ll take a look at his rise to the throne, his exploits in battle and on the home front to see if he was truly a good king. John II: Prisoner of War King John II and his son Philip The Bold were captured by the English during the Battle of Poitiers. King John spent the next four years in England trying to negotiate a release and raise the ransom money. His eldest son, Charles worked on the home front trying to raise money and support for his father’s return. In 1360 England and France signed the Treaty of Brétigny ensuring the release of King John Further Reading If you are interested in learning more about Medieval Mercenaries below is a list of books I used while researching this episode. Tuchman, Barbara Wertheim. A Distant Mirror: The Calamitous 14th Century. Ballantine, 1979. Jones, Michael K. The Black Prince: England’s Greatest Medieval Warrior. Pegasus Books, 2019. Jones, Michael, ed. The New Cambridge Medieval History, Volume 6: C.1300 – c.1415. Vol. 6. The New Cambridge Medieval History 6. Cambridge University Press, 2015. Sumption, Jonathan. Trial by Battle: The Hundred Years War. Vol. 1. 3 vols. The Hundred Years War 1. Faber & Faber, 1990.   Disclaimer: Affiliate links are used on this site. While they don’t cost you anything when you purchase through them they help support Medieval Archives. Lesson Notes In today's lesson we discuss: Salic Law The Black Death The Hundred Years War England & King Edward III The Battle of Poitiers The Order of the Star Get your free audio book from Audible.com at https://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. Apple Podcasts | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed   The intro music was provided by Tim Rayburn.  It is available at Magnatune.com

Fight For Profit Soldiers in the Middle Ages fought for King and Country. But what did they do when the wars ended? Not all soldiers retired back to a life of farming or trade. Some men wanted to continue fighting and they fought for profit Medieval Mercenaries rose to prominence in the 13th and 14th centuries. The Mercenary Companies were made up of men from every corner of Europe; Germany, France, England, Spain, Scandinavia, Italy. Mercenary Companies The Mercenaries formed companies, small (and in some cases large) armies of men who would fight for the right price. The Catalan Company, always outnumbered but never at a disadvantage counted around 8,000 men in its ranks.   The White Company led by the infamous Sir John Hawkwood, employed over 15,000 men at its peak. Hawkwood was a longbowman for Edward III in the Hundred Years War and fought at both the Battle of Crécy and Poitiers. Further Reading If you are interested in learning more about Medieval Mercenaries below is a list of books I used while researching this episode. Caferro, William. John Hawkwood: an English Mercenary in Fourteenth-Century Italy. Johns Hopkins Univ. Press, 2015 Cooper, Stephen. Sir John Hawkwood: Chivalry and the Art of War. Pen & Sword Military, 2008 D’Amato, Raffaele, and Giuseppe Rava. The Varangian Guard: 988-1453. Osprey, 2010 Deiss, Joseph Jay. Captains of Fortune: Profiles of Six Italian Condottieri. New York, 1967 Keen, Maurice Hugh. Medieval Warfare: A History. Oxford University Press, 1999   Disclaimer: Affiliate links are used on this site. While they don’t cost you anything when you purchase through them they help support Medieval Archives. Lesson Notes In today's lesson we discuss: John Hawkwood and the White Company Albert Sterz Werner von Urslingen and the Great Company Konrad von Landau The Varangian Guard Roger de Flor and the Catalan Company

We hit a milestone this month for the Medieval Archives Podcast. Ten years of podcasting! Unfortunately the podcast hit an unexpected and lengthy hiatus. But we are coming back this summer! Along with the 10 year anniversary is a fresh new website. And we're removing all the ads from the website as well! The new website and renewed podcast will remain ad-free! There are great lessons ready and planned, looking at the history and tragedy of Notre Dame cathedral, Medieval Mercenaries, Vikings, the Crusades, explorers and much more. The Medieval Archives podcast and website will remain ad-free. The money I earned from the ad networks helps keep the website and podcast running. But I'd rather lose that money to make a better experience for you on the website and while listening to the podcast. I might still keep reminding you about the free book from audible! But seriously, who doesn't like free books! Your support is always appreciated. anyway you want to contribute helps, subscribe on apple podcasts or your podcast listener of choice, share the podcast with a friend, send in topic ideas, write a guest post for the website or donate. Send any thoughts or comments to me at Podcast[at]MedievalArchvies.com Subscribing to the podcast and being a dedicated listener is all the support needed!

In today's lesson we are joined by author Wayne Bartlett to discuss Richard the Lionheart! Wayne's new book Richard the Lionheart: The Crusader King of England is available through Amberley Publishing. It's an excellent biography and the first biography of Richard the Lionheart in over 40 years! Wayne and I discuss Richard's upbringing, the Crusades and his war in France. We also cover the women in his life; his powerful mother, Eleanor of Aquitaine, the rejected Alice of France and his wife Berengaria of Navarre. Whilst Richard I is one of medieval England’s most famous kings he is also the most controversial. He has variously been considered a great warrior but a poor king, a man driven by the quest for fame and glory but also lacking in self-discipline and prone to throwing away the short-term advantages that his military successes brought him. In this reassessment the author looks at his deeds and achievements in a new light. The result is a compelling new portrait of ‘the Lionheart’ which shows that the king is every bit as remarkable as his medieval contemporaries found him to be. This includes his Muslim enemies, who spoke of him as their most dangerous and gallant opponent. It shows him to be a man badly let down by some of those around him, especially his brother John and the duplicitous French king Philip. The foibles of his character are also exposed to the full, including his complicated relationships with the key women in his life, especially the imposing contemporary figure of his mother, Eleanor of Aquitaine, and his wife, Berengaria, with whom he failed to produce an heir, leading to later suggestions of homosexuality. This is a new Richard, one for the twenty-first century, and a re-evaluation of the life story of one of the greatest personalities of medieval Europe. W. B. Bartlett has worked across the globe in almost twenty countries and has spent time in over fifty. He is the author of many history books for Amberley including titles on the Titanic, Medieval History and Dam Busters. He lives in Bournemouth. You can buy his book from Amberley Publishing at https://www.amberley-books.com/richard-the-lionheart.html or from Amazon If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on Apple Podcasts. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now!   Listen to the episode now http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook   Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. Apple Podcasts | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The intro music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

Today's lesson features a talk with historian and author Stephen Spinks. Stephen's new book Edward II The Man: A Doomed Inheritance was recently published by Amberley Publishing. Edward II The Man is an in-depth biography of an often overlooked medieval king. Stephen and I talk about his work with the National Trust, his writing and his new book. It's a fantastic talk and I have a whole new outlook on Edward II, his reign and his fate. You can also read a Q&A post with Stephen about his book. Connect with Stephen on his website Fourteenth Century Fiend (https://fourteenthcenturyfiend.com), Twitter: https://twitter.com/SpinksStephen or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpinksStephen/. You can buy his book from Amberley Publishing at https://www.amberley-books.com/edward-ii-the-man.html or from Amazon USA or Amazon UK If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on Apple Podcasts. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now!   Listen to the episode now http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook   Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. Apple Podcasts | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The intro music was provided by Tim Rayburn.  It is available at Magnatune.com

HAPPY HALLOWEEN! The Great Plague or Black Death ravaged Europe in the 14th century, killing around 200 million people. No one was immune to the Plague! But as we'll find out in today's episode one man thought his wealth could keep him safe. Today on the Halloween inspired episode we are going to listen to Edgar Allan Poe’s The Masque of the Red Death. It's a story of the lower class suffering while the Nobles stay safe in their castle…but with Poe there is always a twist… The creepy cool background music was by Natureworld1986. You can find all his music on his Youtube Channel. Please send any comments or suggestions to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The intro music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

We have a special episode today of medieval inspired music! Ian Churchward and his band The Legendary 10 Seconds write music about Richard III and the Wars of the Roses. Today we are showcasing one of their albums Tant le Desiree, the second album in the Richard III saga. You can find all their music at thelegendary10seconds.co.uk Ian and his band have a new album out called Sunnes and Roses, which focuses on the Wars of the Roses. Head over to their website and check out all their great music! Please send any comments or suggestions to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The intro music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

Ever wonder how medieval people dealt with natural disasters? No Red Cross or FEMA to come in and help clean up. Earthquakes and Tsunamis are some of the most destructive forces in nature. It's estimated there are over 500,000 earthquakes each year and over 100,000 of them can be felt. Earthquakes in the Middle Ages are some of the most destructive in history. Today on the Medieval Archives Podcast we'll discuss Medieval Earthquakes! We'll see where they hit, the devastation they caused and how they were recorded. Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! In this episode we discuss: Antioch 526 Japan 869 Syria 1138 And more... http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

In 1242 the Teutonic Knights were conquering lands to the east into Novgorod. Pope Gregory IX blessed the Knights in their Crusade to rid Novgorod of the orthodox pagans. Alexander Nevsky and his army had other plans. They intended to defend their country from all invaders. The conflict ended with a fierce battle, called the Battle on the Ice. On a frigid day in April the two armies met on the frozen ice of Lake Peipus. If the Teutonic Knights were victorious they would stamp out the Orthodox religion and spread Catholicism throughout Russia. If Nevsky and his army successfully stopped the Knights Novgorod and Russia would be free of Western influence. Today on the Medieval Archives Podcast we'll discuss the Northern Crusades and the Battle on the Ice. Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! In this episode we discuss: Northern Crusades Livonian Order of the Teutonic Knights Pope Gregory IX Saint Alexander Nevsky And more... http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

The Canterbury Tales is a collection of 24 stories written Geoffrey Chaucer between 1387–1400. The tales are presented as part of a story-telling contest by a group of pilgrims as they travel together on a journey from London to Canterbury to visit the shrine of Saint Thomas Becket at Canterbury Cathedral. The Miller's Tale is about a carpenter, John, his beautiful wife Alison and two clerks who fall in love with Alison. Today on the Medieval Archives Podcast we'll listen to the Miller's Tale from Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales. Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

Jack Cade's RebellionThe summer of 1450 was full of unrest in England. A failing war in France, political corruption and out of control crime left the citizens of England on edge. One man, Jack Cade, gathered together a band of followers from all classes of life and marched on London. The group presented King Henry VI a list of grievances called 'The Complaint of the Poor Commons of Kent' and demanded the King clean up the corruption and crime. What followed was a summer of battles, looting, death and betrayal pitting Jack Cade and his followers against the King and his court. Today on the Medieval Archives Podcast we discuss Jack Cade's Rebellion, the history leading up to it's beginnings, the rebellions and it's aftremath and the fate of Jack Cade. Enjoy the lesson! Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: Henry V Henry VI Richard, Duke of York Jack Cade And more... http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

Cesare Borgia in a Nutshell MadeGlobal’s History in a Nutshell Series aims to give readers a good grounding in a historical topic in a concise, easily digestible and accessible way. Cesare Borgia in a Nutshell outlines the life of one of history’s most controversial figures from his birth through to his murder in 1507 at the age of just 31. This book aims to expose the truth behind the age-old rumours of this ancient family and to shed light onto a fascinating period of history. Today on this bonus episode of the Medieval Archives Podcast Samantha presents the Top Five Borgia myths! Listen to the episode and sign up for the book giveaway below. Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now Book Giveaway! For a chance to win a copy of Cesare Borgia in a Nutshell subscribe to our newsletter and then send us an email with the answer to the following question: Who was Cesare Borgia's infamous father? Giveaway expires on 30 Nov 2016 at 1700MST (1900EST, 2400GMT). Winner will be chosen at random and contacted via email. Subscribe to our mailing list About the Author Samantha Morris studied archaeology at the University of Winchester where her interest in the history of the Italian Renaissance began. Since graduating University, her interest in the Borgia family has grown to such an extent that she is always looking for new information on the subject as well as fighting against the age-old rumours that haunt them. Samantha describes herself as an accountant by day, historian and author by night. Her first published book, Cesare Borgia in a Nutshell, is a brief biography which aims to dispel the myths surrounding a key member of the Borgia family. She runs the popular Borgia website https://theborgiabull.com/ and would love to see you on her site. You can follow Samantha on Twitter: @TheBorgiaBull and check out her Facebook page for The Borgia Bull http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

The Children's Crusade 1212In the summer of 1212 a French boy and a German boy had separate visions of freeing the Holy Land from the Muslims. Their quests included over 20,000 medieval children and is known as the Children's Crusade. Stephan of Cloyes, a French shepard boy, claimed Jesus told him to gather a group of children and free the Holy Land. That same year in Germany, Nicholas of Cologne, had his own idea to free the Holy Land of Muslims. The two boys enlisted the help of thousands of children and embarked on a journey through Europe to the Holy Land. Shunned by Kings and Popes the children would not be deterred. Today on the Medieval Archives Podcast we discuss the Children's Crusade, it's beginnings, the journey to the Medeterrian Sea and the fate of the children on the Crusade. Enjoy this lesson on the Children's Crusade! Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: Stephan of Cloyes Nicholas of Cologne Pope Innocent III And more... http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

Love, marriage and lose during the Anarchy. Waleran continues his quest to become the Archbishop of Canterbury and William Hamliegh tries to become the Earl of Shiring. Aliena faces a tough decision that involves the future of Richard and the promise she made to her father. Jack and Alfred are at odds and Ellen uses her powers to help Jack. Join us as we continuing our trip through The Pillars of the Earth. This week we recap/review episode six "Witchcraft" of the Starz Original series The Pillars of the Earth. Set in the the 12th century The Pillars of the Earth tells the story of King Stephen's reign over England and the 19 year period of Anarchy. Pillars of the Earth Synopsis This epic tale of passion and greed begins when a mysterious secret disrupts the succession to the English crown and an unlikely member of King Henry's family takes the throne. A power struggle between Henry's daughter, Maud, and nephew, Stephen, causes England to be torn by war as battles rage for the rightful heir. Meanwhile, Bishop Waleran Bigod and the Hamleigh family manipulate the conflict to satisfy their own ruthless ambitions. Within this tumultuous setting, Prior Philip fights insurmountable obstacles to keep Kingsbridge and his dream of building a magnificent cathedral alive. The task is daunting, but master-mason Tom Builder, his gifted stepson, Jack, and noblewoman Aliena work together to achieve their dreams. And in the process, the long-hidden secret is revealed. Episode 6 "Witchcraft" Richard returns from war to find his sister penniless and unable to support his knighthood. Alfred offers himself to Prior Philip as master builder. Aliena has to choose between her love for Jack and her oath to her father. Regan forces Waleran to speak to the King about William’s long-delayed Earldom. A disaster at Kingsbridge becomes a way for Waleran to remove Prior Philip from his position. Topics Discussed: Episode Recap Episode Review History Lesson: What was correct and what was incorrect Medieval Surnames Cast of Characters: Ian McShane as Waleran Bigod Donald Sutherland as Earl Bartholomew Rufus Sewell as Tom Builder Matthew Macfadyen as Prior Philip Tony Curran as King Stephen Alison Pill as Princess Maude Sarah Parish as Regan Hamleigh Robert Bathurst as Percy Hamleigh David Oakes as William Hamleigh Goetz Otto as Walter Hayley Atwell as Aliena Sam Claflin as Richard Liam Garrigan as Alfred Builder Skye Bennett as Martha Builder Gordon Pinsent as the Archbishop Eddie Redmayne as Jack Jackson Natalia Wörner as Ellen Anatole Taubman as Remigius Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.audibletrial.com/MedievalArchives You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

This year's Halloween Special we present the radio drama Dracula, by Orson Welles and the Mercury Theater, originally broadcast on 11 July 1938. The inspiration for Bram Stoker's Dracula is Vlad Tepes or Vlad the Impaler. Vlad is best known for fighting the Ottoman invasion and for impaling his enemies alive. If you want more Halloween podcasts check out last year's Haunted Castle series. Enjoy the presentation and have a happy and safe halloween You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

Today we have a review of the debut CD by Moat Jumper, Christmas At The Renaissance Fair. Moat Jumper is a group of World Class musicians that came together for a new collaboration of Medieval and Renaissance Christmas songs. We also talk to musician and producer Joe Matzzie about his background, the forming of the group and the recording process. Visit the Moat Jumper official website to find out more about Joe and the group. You can also find them on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and more. Where to get the CD: Available on Amazon: Moat Jumper, Christmas At The Renaissance Fair Available on CDBaby.com: Moat Jumper, Christmas At The Renaissance Fair Available on iTunes: Moat Jumper, Christmas At The Renaissance Fair Medieval Archives gives Moat Jumper, Christmas At The Renaissance Fair 5 out of 5 stars. I love it, the family loves it and I believe you will too. You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed. Disclaimer: Medieval Archives received a complimentary copy of the Moat Jumper, Christmas At The Renaissance Fair CD.

Today is the 945th anniversary of the Battle of Hastings. We look at the year 1066, the death of King Edward the Confessor and the dispute over the throne of England. Harold Godwinson was crowned the new king of England. However, Harold Hardrada, Viking King of Norway and William the Bastard, Duke of Normandy both made claims for the throne. We will look at the pivotal battles fought during 1066 and how the kingdom of England was changed forever. Topics Discussed: Harold Godwinson William the Bastard, Duke of Normandy Harold Hardrada, King of Norway Battle of Stamford Bridge Battle of Hastings Aftermath of Hastings History Teachers: Please check out the History Teachers YouTube channel. They have a lot of great videos and were kind enough to let me use some audio for this podcast. You can also find them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/historyteacherz Books: 1066: The Year Of Conquest by David Howarth 1066: Year Of Three Battles by Frank McLynn 1066 In An Hour by Kaye Jones Movies: 1066: The Battle for Middle Earth If you enjoy the Medieval Archives Podcast please consider giving us a favorable rating in the iTunes store. You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

Tragedy strikes during The Anarchy! (Which is probably why it's called Anarchy) Maud and Stephen are still battling for power. As Prior Philip and Tom Builder try to build the cathedral at Kingsbridge. All the while Waleran and the Hamleigh's are trying to stop them at every opportunity. Join us as we continuing our trip through The Pillars of the Earth. This week we recap/review episode five "Legacy" of the Starz Original series The Pillars of the Earth. Set in the the 12th century The Pillars of the Earth tells the story of King Stephen's reign over England and the 19 year period of Anarchy. Pillars of the Earth Synopsis This epic tale of passion and greed begins when a mysterious secret disrupts the succession to the English crown and an unlikely member of King Henry's family takes the throne. A power struggle between Henry's daughter, Maud, and nephew, Stephen, causes England to be torn by war as battles rage for the rightful heir. Meanwhile, Bishop Waleran Bigod and the Hamleigh family manipulate the conflict to satisfy their own ruthless ambitions. Within this tumultuous setting, Prior Philip fights insurmountable obstacles to keep Kingsbridge and his dream of building a magnificent cathedral alive. The task is daunting, but master-mason Tom Builder, his gifted stepson, Jack, and noblewoman Aliena work together to achieve their dreams. And in the process, the long-hidden secret is revealed. Episode 5 "Legacy" Waleran and Regan engineer the prisoner exchange so that they remain on the winning side of the war. Tom wants Jack and Alfred to be friends but their rivalry over work and Aliena is too intense. Meanwhile, William decides to attack Kingsbridge to stop the fleece fair and Aliena’s success. The Hamleighs and Prior Philip are granted rights to Shiring land but at a price. Alfred's jealousy of Jack reaches new heights. Topics Discussed: Episode Recap Episode Review History Lesson: What was correct and what was incorrect Prince Eustace Empress Maud Prince Henry Cast of Characters: Ian McShane as Waleran Bigod Donald Sutherland as Earl Bartholomew Rufus Sewell as Tom Builder Matthew Macfadyen as Prior Philip Tony Curran as King Stephen Alison Pill as Princess Maude Sarah Parish as Regan Hamleigh Robert Bathurst as Percy Hamleigh David Oakes as William Hamleigh Goetz Otto as Walter Hayley Atwell as Aliena Sam Claflin as Richard Liam Garrigan as Alfred Builder Skye Bennett as Martha Builder Gordon Pinsent as the Archbishop Eddie Redmayne as Jack Jackson Natalia Wörner as Ellen Anatole Taubman as Remigius You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

The Anarchy heats up this week! There are beseiged castles, fierce battles and of course, double dealings! Join us as we continuing our trip through The Pillars of the Earth. This week we recap/review episode four "Battlefields" of the Starz Original series The Pillars of the Earth. Set in the the 12th century The Pillars of the Earth tells the story of King Stephen's reign over England and the 19 year period of Anarchy. Pillars of the Earth Synopsis This epic tale of passion and greed begins when a mysterious secret disrupts the succession to the English crown and an unlikely member of King Henry's family takes the throne. A power struggle between Henry's daughter, Maud, and nephew, Stephen, causes England to be torn by war as battles rage for the rightful heir. Meanwhile, Bishop Waleran Bigod and the Hamleigh family manipulate the conflict to satisfy their own ruthless ambitions. Within this tumultuous setting, Prior Philip fights insurmountable obstacles to keep Kingsbridge and his dream of building a magnificent cathedral alive. The task is daunting, but master-mason Tom Builder, his gifted stepson, Jack, and noblewoman Aliena work together to achieve their dreams. And in the process, the long-hidden secret is revealed. Episode 4 "Battlefields" Maud is besieged at Lincoln Castle and Robert of Gloucester can't come to her aid for some time. William applies to have his father’s title of Earl transferred to him and discovers a mysterious knight is also a rival for the Earldom. Meanwhile, Regan arranges to have Waleran absolve William of all past and future sins in an effort to conquer William's fear of hell. King Stephen, frightened by Jack’s appearance, orders an assassin to kill him. The battle between King Stephen and Maud sees each side’s leader being taken hostage. Philip is tortured into a confession when Waleran tells Maud that he is the man who betrayed Earl Bartholomew. Cast of Characters: Ian McShane as Waleran Bigod Donald Sutherland as Earl Bartholomew Rufus Sewell as Tom Builder Matthew Macfadyen as Prior Philip Tony Curran as King Stephen Alison Pill as Princess Maude Sarah Parish as Regan Hamleigh Robert Bathurst as Percy Hamleigh David Oakes as William Hamleigh Goetz Otto as Walter Hayley Atwell as Aliena Sam Claflin as Richard Liam Garrigan as Alfred Builder Skye Bennett as Martha Builder Gordon Pinsent as the Archbishop Eddie Redmayne as Jack Jackson Natalia Wörner as Ellen Anatole Taubman as Remigius You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

We are continuing the trip through Pillars of the Earth. This week we recap/review episode three "Redemption" of the Starz Original series The Pillars of the Earth. Set in the the 12th century The Pillars of the Earth tells the story of King Stephen's reign over England and the 19 year period of Anarchy. Pillars of the Earth Synopsis This epic tale of passion and greed begins when a mysterious secret disrupts the succession to the English crown and an unlikely member of King Henry's family takes the throne. A power struggle between Henry's daughter, Maud, and nephew, Stephen, causes England to be torn by war as battles rage for the rightful heir. Meanwhile, Bishop Waleran Bigod and the Hamleigh family manipulate the conflict to satisfy their own ruthless ambitions. Within this tumultuous setting, Prior Philip fights insurmountable obstacles to keep Kingsbridge and his dream of building a magnificent cathedral alive. The task is daunting, but master-mason Tom Builder, his gifted stepson, Jack, and noblewoman Aliena work together to achieve their dreams. And in the process, the long-hidden secret is revealed. Episode 3 "Redemption" Aliena protests her father’s imprisonment. Prior Philip and William find themselves in a standoff over access to stone in the Shiring quarry. Waleran and Regan plot to have the cathedral moved from Kingsbridge to Shiring. Jack’s artistic talents take hold as he begins to carve a statue to honour the cathedral relic. King Stephen visits the cathedral worksite but collapses in a fit of terror. Aliena starts a fleece business to help earn money for Richard’s expenses as a knight. William is concerned that he'll burn in hell for his many sins. Cast of Characters: Ian McShane as Waleran Bigod Donald Sutherland as Earl Bartholomew Rufus Sewell as Tom Builder Matthew Macfadyen as Prior Philip Tony Curran as King Stephen Alison Pill as Princess Maude Sarah Parish as Regan Hamleigh Robert Bathurst as Percy Hamleigh David Oakes as William Hamleigh Goetz Otto as Walter Hayley Atwell as Aliena Sam Claflin as Richard Liam Garrigan as Alfred Builder Skye Bennett as Martha Builder Gordon Pinsent as the Archbishop Eddie Redmayne as Jack Jackson Natalia Wörner as Ellen Anatole Taubman as Remigius You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

We are back an ready for 2011! Our first podcast of the year is a recap/review of the Starz Original series The Pillars of the Earth. Set in the the 12th century The Pillars of the Earth tells the story of King Stephen's reign over England and the 19 year period of Anarchy. This epic tale of passion and greed begins when a mysterious secret disrupts the succession to the English crown and an unlikely member of King Henry's family takes the throne. A power struggle between Henry's daughter, Maud, and nephew, Stephen, causes England to be torn by war as battles rage for the rightful heir. Meanwhile, Bishop Waleran Bigod and the Hamleigh family manipulate the conflict to satisfy their own ruthless ambitions. Within this tumultuous setting, Prior Philip fights insurmountable obstacles to keep Kingsbridge and his dream of building a magnificent cathedral alive. The task is daunting, but master-mason Tom Builder, his gifted stepson, Jack, and noblewoman Aliena work together to achieve their dreams. And in the process, the long-hidden secret is revealed. Episode 2 "Master Builder" Tom, Ellen and the children make their way to Kingsbridge Priory and encounter Tom's abandoned baby taken in by the monks. A fire destroys Kingsbridge church, giving Tom, son Alfred and stepson Jack the chance to build a new cathedral. Prior Philip learns the power of politics when he gets caught between Bishop Waleran and the Hamleighs’ quest for Shiring Castle. Kingsbridge is rocked by the accusation of Ellen being a witch. William and his underling, Walter, take Aliena and Richard by surprise in a brutal attack that leaves the siblings shaken. Aliena makes a promise to her father, Earl Bartholomew. Ellen makes a daring escape with the help of Prior Philip and others. Cast of Characters: Ian McShane as Waleran Bigod Donald Sutherland as Earl Bartholomew Rufus Sewell as Tom Builder Matthew Macfadyen as Prior Philip Tony Curran as King Stephen Alison Pill as Princess Maude Sarah Parish as Regan Hamleigh Robert Bathurst as Percy Hamleigh David Oakes as William Hamleigh Goetz Otto as Walter Hayley Atwell as Aliena Sam Claflin as Richard Liam Garrigan as Alfred Builder Skye Bennett as Martha Builder Gordon Pinsent as the Archbishop Eddie Redmayne as Jack Jackson Natalia Wörner as Ellen Anatole Taubman as Remigius You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

A short history of St. Valentine's Day. Who is the real St Valentine? Why is the day linked to love and romance? Which medieval author can we thank for transforming Valentin's Day into a day of love and romance? Find out how it all began and how it relates to the Middle Ages in this episode of the Medieval Archives Podcast. Audio clips from: Shakespeare's Hamlet and Sonnet 18 by David Gilmour You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

Warfare Wednesday Agnes Randolph, Countess of Dunbar and March, also known as Black Agnes of Dunbar, was the wife of Patrick, 9th Earl of Dunbar and March. Black Agnes became renowned for her heroic defense of Dunbar Castle against an English attack by the William Montague, 1st Earl of Salisbury, which began on 13 January 1338. Lady Agnes died in 1369 of natural causes. Her husband, Patrick Dunbar died just a few months after his brave lady. She is buried in the vault near Mordington House. "Of Scotland's King I haud my house, He pays me meat and fee, And I will keep my gude auld house, While my house will keep me." -Black Agnes You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

We are back an ready for 2011! Our first podcast of the year is a recap/review of the Starz Original series The Pillars of the Earth. Set in the the 12th century The Pillars of the Earth tells the story of King Stephen's reign over England and the 19 year period of Anarchy. This epic tale of passion and greed begins when a mysterious secret disrupts the succession to the English crown and an unlikely member of King Henry's family takes the throne. A power struggle between Henry's daughter, Maud, and nephew, Stephen, causes England to be torn by war as battles rage for the rightful heir. Meanwhile, Bishop Waleran Bigod and the Hamleigh family manipulate the conflict to satisfy their own ruthless ambitions. Within this tumultuous setting, Prior Philip fights insurmountable obstacles to keep Kingsbridge and his dream of building a magnificent cathedral alive. The task is daunting, but master-mason Tom Builder, his gifted stepson, Jack, and noblewoman Aliena work together to achieve their dreams. And in the process, the long-hidden secret is revealed. Episode 1 is title 'The Anarchy" and sets the stage for this epic series. The death of Prince William puts the line of succession in jeopardy as the only remaining heir to King Henry I is his daughter Maud. King Henry's nephew Stephen also has ambitions for the throne and will not be stopped. Meanwhile the monk Philip and Archdeacon Waleran are in the midst of the dirty side of church politics. In the middle of it all is Tom Builder. Tom, a simple mason and family man is trying to secure work so he can provide for his family and ends up being a central figure to everyone involved. Cast of Characters: Ian McShane as Waleran Bigod Donald Sutherland as Earl Bartholomew Rufus Sewell as Tom Builder Matthew Macfadyen as Prior Philip Tony Curran as King Stephen Alison Pill as Princess Maude Sarah Parish as Regan Hamleigh Robert Bathurst as Percy Hamleigh David Oakes as William Hamleigh Goetz Otto as Walter Hayley Atwell as Aliena Sam Claflin as Richard Liam Garrigan as Alfred Builder Skye Bennett as Martha Builder Gordon Pinsent as the Archbishop Eddie Redmayne as Jack Jackson Natalia Wörner as Ellen Anatole Taubman as Remigius You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

Fortress Friday - Halloween Special During the month of October Fortress Friday will be exploring the paranormal. Throughout Europe there are stories of ghost sightings and strange occurrences. In a 6-part series we will look at some of the most haunted Castles in Europe. The final castle in our series is The Tower of London. William the Conqueror built the original White tower in 1078. The tower began as a royal residence and was converted to a prison around 1100. The tower was expanded numerous times throughout the 12th and 13th century to become what we see today, a massive fortress looming over the river Thames. The Tower of London is haunted by some of the most famous names in England’s history including Thomas Becket, Henry VI, the Two Princes and Queen Anne Boleyn. You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

Fortress Friday During the month of October Fortress Friday will be exploring the paranormal. Throughout Europe there are stories of ghost sightings and strange occurrences. In a 6-part series we will look at some of the most haunted Castles in Europe. The fifth castle in our series is Chillingham Castle. Situated on the northern border of England. Chillingham was the staging area for King Edward I as he pushed into Scotland to suppress William Wallace and his Scottish allies. Take a listen and learn about the murderous torturer John Sage and of Lady Mary and see why this is considered one of the most haunted castles of England. You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

Fortress Friday During the month of October Fortress Friday will be exploring the paranormal. Throughout Europe there are stories of ghost sightings and strange occurrences. In a 6-part series we will look at some of the most haunted Castles in Europe. The fourth castle in our series is Edinburgh Castle. Sitting high atop castle rock Edinburgh Castle is the main attraction in the city. Below the castle are mazes of tunnels were residents and prisoners have been lost to the ages. We will take a trip back and see what haunts this magnificent castle. You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

Fortress Friday During the month of October Fortress Friday will be exploring the paranormal. Throughout Europe there are stories of ghost sightings and strange occurrences. In a 6-part series we will look at some of the most haunted Castles in Europe. The third castle in our series is Dover Castle. Dover was started as an earthwork castle by William the Conqueror in 1066. It was completely remolded by Henry II starting in 1178. Today it is a popular tourist destination and home to ghost from its 1000 years of history. If you go you may see the likes of the Red Lady, Sean Flynn, Napoleonic war vets and even WWII veterans. You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

Fortress Friday During the month of October Fortress Friday will be exploring the paranormal. Throughout Europe there are stories of ghost sightings and strange occurrences. In a 6-part series we will look at some of the most haunted Castles in Europe. The second castle in our series is Malahide Castle, located North of Dublin, Ireland. Roger Talbot was given the land by King Henry II and began building the Castle in 1185. Malahide Castle is home to no fewer than five spirits: Lord Galtrim, Lady Maud Plunkett, Lord Chief Justice, Miles Corbett and Puck. You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

Fortress Friday During the month of October Fortress Friday will be exploring the paranormal. Throughout Europe there are stories of ghost sightings and strange occurrences. In a 6-part series we will look at some of the most haunted Castles in Europe. The first castle in our series is Dragsholm Castle. It is arguably one of the most haunted in all of Europe. Located in Denmark it is now a luxurious hotel. Listen in for the tales of the Grey Lady, the Earl of Bothwell and the White Lady. You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

In this episode of the Medieval Archives Podcast we discuss "The Anarchy" a nineteen year period of civil war and chaos. The death of King Henry I set off a chain reaction of events that set England on a path of destruction. The Scots in the North, the Welsh in the West and the English nobleman all struggled to gain back or acquire land and wealth. Stephen of Blois becomes King Stephen and is a weak and indecisive leader. Empress Matilda is staging attacks from Normandy as the rightful heir to the throne. Will England survive two decades of civil war and infighting? Will King Stephen learn to rule with a strong hand and a decisive nature? Will Empress Matilda gain her rightful place as the Queen of England? You will find out all of this and more in Episode Four of the Medieval Archives Podcast. You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. Items discussed: King Stephen Empress Matilda Battle of Standard Battle of Lincoln First Treaty of Durham Treaty of Wallingford Historical Fiction Books: Cecelia Holland: The Earl Elizabeth Chadwick: A Place Beyond Courage Ken Follett: The Pillars of the Earth The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

In this episode of the Medieval Archives we discuss Eustace the Monk, the most feared pirate of the 13th Century. Eustace the Monk left the monastery and became an outlaw, a magician and a pirate. We discuss his early life, why he left the monastery and how he turned to piracy. We also look at his role in the First Baron’s War and his death. You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. Items discussed: Magna Carta Battle of Dover Battle of Sandwich Henry Cannon “Eustace the Monk and the Battle of Sandwich” Glyn Burgess: Two medieval Outlaws: Eustace the Monk and Fouke Fitz Waryn The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

In this episode of the Medieval Archives podcast we discuss Edward of Woodstock. Prince Edward, 'The Black Prince" was the oldest son of King Edward III. He proved to be an exceptional military leader during the Hundred Years War. We discuss his personal life, his outstanding military career and the major campaigns he fought. We will also look at his influence in popular culture since his death. You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. Items discussed: Military Campaigns: Battle of Crecy - 1346 Battle of Poitiers - 1356 Battle of Najera - 1367 Pop Culture Plays: Shakespeare; Henry V George Bernard Shaw; St. Joan Roger Boyle; The Black Prince Books: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle; The White Company and Sir Nigel Karen Harper; The First Princess of Wales Gordon Dickson; The Dragon Knight and The Dragon and the Fair Maiden of Kent Ken Follett; World Without End Bernard Cornwell; The Archer's Tale Movies: Dark Avengers - 1955 A Knight's Tale - 2001 Games: BladeStrom: The Hundreds Years War Empire Earth Medieval: Total War Age of Empires II The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

In the first episode of the Medieval Archives podcast we discuss Thomas Becket. We discuss his early life, his rise to power as the Lord Chancellor of England and ultimately his role as the Archbishop of Canterbury. We talk about his friendship and loyalty to King Henry II and his loyalty to the Church and Pope. We also look at his influence after his death. You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. Items discussed: Edward Grimm biography (out of Print) T.S. Elliott Murder in the Cathedral Ken Follett The Pillars of the Earth Pillars of the Earth mini-series Becket 1964 movie 2006 'Worst Briton' BBC Poll The music was provided by Tim Rayburn and Ensemble Sreteniye. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

The intro podcast is available. There will not be any show notes for this episode as it is pretty straight forward. You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss an episode. Medieval Archives is available in Podcast Alley My Podcast Alley feed! {pca-9492f3e31b487e00cc4f9fc338391b61} Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah from the Medieval Archives! No intro, no talking just Christmas music inspired by the Middle Ages! Have a safe holiday season and thank you for supporting the Medieval Archives Podcast. Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed

Happy Halloween! The Spanish Inquisition, started in 1478 by Ferdinand and Isabella, was used to rid Spain and the Spanish Territories of heretics. The Spanish Inquisition targeted Catholics who strayed from the Catholic teaches and expanded to Jews, Muslims and non-Catholic Christians. Being convicted by an Inquisition tribunal didn't also led to death, but it almost guaranteed torture. Torture to confess your sins, torture to renounce your evil ways or to name other heretics. Today on the Halloween inspired episode we are going to listen to Edgar Allan Poe's The Pit and the Pendulum. It's a tale of one man's experience as he is tried, sentenced and tortured for crimes against the cross. Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: The Spanish Inqusition Edgar Allan Poe's The Pit and the Pendulum http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

During the first phase of the Hundred Years War a smaller war broke out in France, the Breton War of Succession. Wars of Succession always start the same way, a Nobleman dies without an heir. In this case it was the Duke of Brittany, John the Good, who died childless in 1341. Two men stepped up to claim the duchy and the Civil War raged for 23 years. But in the midst of it all a combat was held that's remembered for the Chivalry and Honor that was displayed by both sides. On 26 March 1351 60 knights met on the battlefield to test their mettle in a friendly competition. Today on the Medieval Archives Podcast we discuss the Combat of the Thirty a medieval battle that pitted knight against knight in a test of skill. The Combat lasted all day and in the end every man, all 60 were either wounded or in some cases dead. Enjoy this lesson on the Combat of the Thirty! Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: Breton War of Succession John of Montfort Charles of Blois Chivalry and Honor SCA Re-enactment video https://youtu.be/WgntUTmEBRM And more... http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

Women in the Middle Ages were docile, meek and subservient. Or at least that's what we were led to believe. But that isn't always the case. In previous lessons we looked at Black Agnes, the defender of Dunbar Castle and Melisende, the Queen of Jerusalem. Women like Joan of Arc, Isabella, the She-Wolf of France and Eleanor of Aquitaine are examples of powerful women in the Middle Ages. Today we are going to look at more women who broke the stereotype and proved to be strong, powerful leaders and commanders. You can call them warriors, but you might not want to call them Warrior Princess! If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: Margaret of Anjou Tomoe Gozen, Samurai Warrior Tamar of Georgia Joanna of Flanders, 'Jeanna le Flamme' And more... http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook

The Battle of Sluys was the first major battle of the Hundred Years' War. There were a few battles before it but nothing that compared to the size and ramifications of Sluys. The Hundred Years' War was a series of wars between England's Plantagenet Dynasty and France's House of Valois and lasted 116 years! The main cause of the war was the rightful rulers of France. In 1328 King Edward III of England was the closest living mail heir to the French throne. However, when King Charles IV of France died Edward was passed over for a more distant relative Philip of Valois. If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music is provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

Geoffrey Chaucer wrote The Canterbury Tales toward the end of the 14th century. The tales are a story telling contest by a group of pilgrims traveling to the shrine of Saint Thomas Becket at Canterbury Cathedral. Today we are going to listen to The Pardoner's Tale, a tale of greed, treachery and betrayal. The Pardoner's Tale is about three young men who discover their friend has been killed. The men set out to avenge their friend and kill death, but quickly abandon their plans when they discover a pile of gold coins. If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music is provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

While browsing a B. Dalton bookstore in 1987 I happened upon a book with a glowing sword on the cover. The description talked of Skull Bearers, trolls, dwarfs, elves and a powerful Sword of Shannara. I was sold! That summer I read the entire Original Shannara trilogy by Terry Brooks. Over the years I would continue to read any book with the name Terry Brooks across the front. The magic of his words, the castles and keeps, swords, heroes and villains captured my imagination and never let go. The Original Shannara Trilogy is one of the reason I began studying medieval history. Today on the Medieval Archive Podcast we talk to best selling author Terry Brooks about his books and the upcoming TV series The Shannara Chronicles. You can connect with Terry at his website TerryBrooks.net, through his Facebook page or find him on Twitter @officialbrooks If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: Terry's background The Shannara Book series The Shannara Chronicles And more... http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music is provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

This year marks the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta. The medieval King responsible for the document is King John of England. He didn't create it, but it was his turbulent reign that caused the Barons to create the document. King John put his seal on it in June 1215 and then refused to abide by the Magna Carta forcing the Barons to revolt against their king. Their revolt, The First Barons' War or The Magna Carta Rebellion, lasted over two years and only ended with the death of King John. Today on the Medieval Archive Podcast we talk to author and historian Marc Morris about his new book, King John: Treachery, Tyranny and the Road to Magna Carta. You can connect with Marc at his website MarcMorris.org.uk, through his Facebook page or find him on Twitter @Longshanks1307 Marc recently wrote a piece on King John for History Today titled King John: Still Englands Greatest Villain. If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: Marc's background King John's Reign Magna Carta Rebellion And more... http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music is provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

We are two weeks away from the beginning of the Richard III re-interment ceremonies. Leicester will be packed with dignitaries, tourist and medievalists to witness the final procession of Richard from Leiscester to Bosworth and back. On the last episode we talked to David Monteith, the Dean of Leicester Cathedral about the Cathedral and the re-interment process. Today on the Medieval Archives. Podcast we talk to author and historian Kristie Dean about her new book, The World of Richard III. The book chronicles the travels of Richard and examines the history of the castles, cathedrals and homes Richard visited during his life. You can connect with Kristie at her website KristieDean.com or through her Facebook page. Get your copy of The World of Richard III at TheBookDepository.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: Kristie's background The travels of King Richard III King Richard III Re-interment And more... http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music is provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

Three years ago archaeologists began a dig to discover the lost remains of King Richard III. Unbelievably they found his remains the very first day! It took over a week of careful excavation to uncover and exhume his bones. The bones were sent to the University of Leicester for analysis. After months of testing and DNA analysis the University confirmed on 04 February 2013 that the remains found in the Leicester car park were indeed Richard III. The discovery brought up another battle...where to bury, or re-bury the King. Leicester was the obvious choice, but some wanted him buried in Westminster Abbey next to other Kings and others wanted him taken to York for burial. In the end, and after a long court battle, a judge decided Leicester was the final resting place. This March, King Richard III will be officially re-interred in the Leicester Cathedral. Joining us on the podcast today is the Very Revd David Monteith, the Dean of Leicester Cathedral. He talks about the history of the cathedral and the upcoming re-interment of King Richard III. If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: The History of Leicester Cathedral King Richard III Re-interment Dean David's role as head of the Leicester Cathedral And more... http://www.medievalarchives.com/medievalpatron Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music is provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

Season 3 Premiere! What's in store for Ragnar and company this year? A trip to Wessex, raids, glory? All that and more! Find out on another great episode of Vikings. On this episode of The Vikings Podcast we'll review and recap the Season 3 premiere episode, Mercenary. Then we'll look at the history presented in the show and see how it compares to actual history. Mercenary Ragnar and Lagertha's fleets depart Kattegat once more for Wessex but this time they bring settlers. King Ecbert hosts the Vikings and proposes a deal. Despite the misgivings of some of the other leaders, Ragnar leads his forces into battle once more, but this time as allies of Wessex. Listen to the episode now http://www.thevikingspodcast.com/vikingpatron In this episode's history lesson we discuss: King Brightwulf Burgred And much more! Visit our sponsor Audible for your free audio book (Click on the Image below) Send in your comments and feedback by calling the listener voicemail line at 720.722.1066 or send an email to feedback@thevikingspodcast.com Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed or in iTunes so you never miss a single episode. Direct Download (MP3) | Subscribe in iTunes | Miro | RSS Photo credit: History.com Copyright © 2014 · Dragon Moon Media All Rights are Reserved. No Infringement is Intended. The Vikings Podcast is a Medieval Archives & Dragon Moon Media production. Medieval Archives' use of any and all copyrighted material is only for parody, news analysis, critique, and/or for educational purposes as provided within United States Code (USC) Title 17 aka “Fair Use”. [simple_series title="VIKINGS Season 3 Podcasts"]

Six hundred years ago Anti-Pope John XXIII called the Council of Constance. It was an ecumenical council recognized by the Roman Catholic Church and began in November 1414. The main purpose of the Council was to end the Western Schism. In 1414 three Popes ruled the Catholic Church, Anti-Popes John XXIII and Benedict XIII and Pope Gregory XII. There were two other issues the Council addressed as well. The heretics John Wyclif and Jan Hus and the Lithuania-Teutonic Knight conflict. The Council of Constance lasted three and a half years and completed two of its objectives, while only partially addressing the third. At the end of the Council a new Pope would stand at the Head of the Catholic Church and the heretics were repressed and burned! The Lithuania-Teutonic Knight conflict would take a little longer to settle. Join us today as we look at the Western Schism and the lead up to the Council of Constance. We'll also look at the Council's actions regarding the heretics and the Teutonic Knights. Please send any comments or suggestions to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: Western Schism Heretics and Jan Hus Poland-Lithuania-Tuetonic Knight dispute And more... Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

Journalist and author Ian Macgill found his writing passion traveling through the jungles of South America. As a young man Ian was awarded the Winston Churchill fellowship and traveled through South America studying ancient sites. His adventures in South America would make a great book as well! After his travels he returned to Britain and began his career as a journalist. Ian now owns and operates the Grapevine Magazine in Sheffeld, England. Most recently Ian authored the book The Rhyme of King Harold, the story of King Harold written entirely in verse. Join us today on the Medieval Archives podcast as we talk with Ian Macgill on his adventures in South America, his book The Rhyme of King Harold and the tumultuous year 1066! Did Harold usurp the English throne? Could the Norman invasion been avoided if Harold wasn't the King? Find out all that and more in our fascinating interview with Ian Macgill! The Rhyme of King Harold is the name of the book, Head over to the website and have a look! (http://www.rhymesofhistory.com/) Below are video performances of Ian's book The Rhyme of King Harold. Please send any comments or suggestions to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: England before King Harold King Harold's rise to power Cause of the Danish Invasion Cause of the Norman Invasion And more... Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook The Rhyme of King Harold The Rhyme of King Harold - Queen Emma Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

Gilles de Rais, an esteemed knight and the Marshall of France, who fought alongside Joan of Arc. Then he turned to the occult and tried to deal with the devil. Gilles isn't remembered as a hero of France, instead he is remembered as a gruesome child murderer. On today's episode we are going to look at Gilles de Rais, a knight who fought alongside Joan of Arc and was her trusted adviser. He was granted the title of Marshal of France by King Charles VII for his loyalty and military victories. But as the Hundred Years War started to end he turned to black magic. Gilles de Rais would stop at nothing to keep his wealth and gain more. He tried Alchemy to turn matter into gold, which lead to sorcery and summoning demons. Through it all he was a vile child killer, who killed so many children by his own admission he cannot count them all. In his testimony de Rais confessed to beating, hanging and beheading children, and that was just the start! His crimes are so vile they will make your stomach turn. Join us today on the Halloween episode of the Medieval Archives Podcast as we look at the valiant knight turned gruesome monster, Gilles de Rais. Please send any comments or suggestions to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: Gilles de Rais childhood Gilles de Rais rise to greatness Gilles de Rais, the occultist and summoner of demons Gilles de Rais as a serial killer And more... Check out our Halloween Podcast page for more great spine-chilling podcasts! Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

I wanted to get out a quick update to let you know about the VIKINGS Season 2 Blu-ray giveaway! It's easy to enter and you could take home a great prize! Head over to http://www.medievalarchives.com/vikingsgiveaway to enter the contest. One lucky player will win a copy of VIKINGS Season 2 on Blu-ray Listen to the episode now The Blu-Ray version includes all 10 original episodes plus: 10 extended and unrated episodes (same episodes as the original with added scenes and no TV rating) “The Viking Sagas” – an interactive Archival Exploration “My Family, My Enemy” featurette “A Warrior Society: Rites of Passage” featurette “Imagining and Exploring Climatic Battles” featurette Commentary from Michael Hirst & Gustaf Skarsgard Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed or in iTunes so you never miss a single episode. Direct Download (MP3) | Subscribe in iTunes | Miro | RSS Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Copyright © 2013 · Dragon Moon Media All Rights are Reserved. No Infringement is Intended. The Vikings Podcast is a Medieval Archives & Dragon Moon Media production. Medieval Archives' use of any and all copyrighted material is only for parody, news analysis, critique, and/or for educational purposes as provided within United States Code (USC) Title 17 aka “Fair Use”.

Award-winning journalist, best selling author and Historian Dan Jones joins the Medieval Archives Podcast to talk all things Plantagenets! His first book on the subject The Plantagents: The Kings Who made England covers the first two centuries of Plantagenet Kings from Henry II to Richard II. In his latest book Wars of the Roses(Hollow Crown, UK Title), Dan chronicles the last century of the Plantagenet dynasty and the Wars of the Roses. He sets the stage with Henry V, takes readers through the Wars of the Roses and finishes with the rise of the Tudor dynasty. Join us on the podcast as Dan and I discuss his writing style, his upcoming TV series on the Plantagenets and how the Plantagenet Kings shaped the medieval era and modern England. Please send any comments or suggestions to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: Dan's background The Plantagenet Dynasty His new book Hollow Crown(UK), Wars of the Roses(USA) Dan's upcoming TV series based on the Book The Plantagenets And more... Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

Jan Hus was a Czech or more accurately for his time, a Bohemian priest, philosopher and religious reformer who shock up the catholic church in the 15th century. We'll look at his life, his ideas about religion and the catholic church and the wars fought in his name. I have shelves and shelves of medieval history books and almost all of them handle the history of Jan Hus and the Hussite Wars the same way...briefly. Most give the subject one or two paragraphs and nothing more. On today's episode we are going to look at Jan Hus and the Hussite Wars in depth. We'll look at the history of Hus and the Hussite Wars. A series of Wars, Crusades really, fought against his followers. We'll also look at the Military mastermind Jan Zizka. Zizka holds a very significant distinction with only 7 other military leaders in all of history! Tune in to find out. Please send any comments or suggestions to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: Jan Hus Hus and his reformation process Hussite Wars Jan Zizka And more... Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

Few authors can capture the atmosphere of the middle ages as well as Bernard Cornwell. A master storyteller Bernard has written over 50 books! I first discovered Bernard Cornwell in the early 2000s when I was browsing at a local bookstore. A book titled The Archer's Tale caught my attention and the main character was an archer fighting in the Hundred Years' War. SOLD! Now I own all Bernard Cornwell's books and anxiously await the newest installment in the Saxon Series, The Empty Throne! Bernard was gracious enough to take time out of his busy schedule and sit down for an interview. It would have been great to sit face to face for the interview but seeing how we live 2000 miles apart a phone conversation would have to do. Please send any comments or suggestions to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now Visit the Official Bernard Cornwell site (www.bernardcornwell.net) to get the latest news and book information. Don't miss Bernard's upcoming book tour! Find all the dates and locations on his website (http://www.bernardcornwell.net/uk-book-tour-october-2014/) In this episode we discuss: Why Bernard took up writing for a living Advice for new writers Fiction vs Non-Fiction The Empty Throne and upcoming book tour And more... Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Photos courtesy of bernardcornwell.net

In June 1314 Scotland faced off against England in a battle that would be remembered through the ages. Outnumbered more than 2-1 the Scots banded together to fight the mighty English. The Battle of Bannockburn started out with an epic confrontation between King Robert the Bruce and the English knight Henry de Bohun. The outcome of that single combat would foretell the outcome of the battle. Bannockburn defined a man and a country and in its wake Scotland would remain a free and independent nation. Join us today on the 700th anniversary of the Battle of Bannockburn, we'll look at the battle, the strategies and the outcome. Please send any comments or suggestions to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: The Legend of the Spider Robert the Bruce v. Henry de Bohun Edward II Schiltrons And more... Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Sound clips from Education Scotland and Braveheart

For everyone living today the Kingdom of Scotland has been apart of the United Kingdom of Great Britain. But the two kingdoms weren't always united. In fact they have only been unified for 300 years. Prior to the 1707 Treaty of Union, Scotland was an independent nation. Travel back even farther, to the late 13th, early 14th century England led by Edward I, the 'Hammer of the Scots' was trying to bring Scotland under control. What Edward didn't count on was a group of Scots, noble and common, steadfast in their belief of a free independent nation. Legendary men like John 'the Red' Comyn, John Balliol, William Wallace and Robert the Bruce. Those men didn't vote for Scottish Independence, they fought and died for it! ...for, as long as but a hundred of us remain alive, never will we on any conditions be brought under English rule. It is in truth not for glory, nor riches, nor honours that we are fighting, but for freedom – for that alone, which no honest man gives up but with life itself. ~Declaration of Arbroath Scottish patriots, outnumbered by a superior army, used guerrilla tactics when possible and prevailed in full battle against all odds. King Edward I wouldn't live to see the end of the war, he died in 1307. It would be his grandson Edward III who signed the Treaty of Edinburgh-Northampton in 1328. Edward II was deposed and killed in 1327! Join us today as we explore the Scottish War of Independence, we'll look at the battles, the key players and how Scotland was able to defeat the might Kingdom of England. Please send any comments or suggestions to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: Battle of Stirling Bridge Robert the Bruce Edward II William Wallace Scottish Referendum 2014 And more... Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Sound clips from BBC and Braveheart

Defender of the City of God is a new book by award winning author Sharan Newman. It examines the First Crusade, the Crusader state of Jerusalem and Queen Melisande. Sharan also writes fiction novels based in the Middle Ages, including a series of Medieval mysteries. In this lesson we talk with Sharan about her background, her books, both fiction and non-fiction, her writing style and her love of the Middle Ages. Defender of the City of God: Jerusalem sits at the crossroads of three continents and has been continuously invaded for millennia. Yet, in the middle of one of the region’s most violent eras, the Crusades, an amazing multicultural world was forming. Templar knights, Muslim peasants, Turkish caliphs, Jewish merchants, and the native Christians, along with the children of the first crusaders, blended cultures while struggling to survive in a land constantly at war. Defending the City of God explores this fascinating and forgotten world, and how a group of sisters, daughters of the King of Jerusalem, whose supporters included Grand Masters of the Templars and Armenian clerics, held together the fragile treaties, understandings, and marriages that allowed for relative peace among the many different factions. As the crusaders fought to maintain their conquests, these relationships quickly unraveled, and the religious and cultural diversity was lost as hardline factions took over. Weaving together the political intrigues and dynastic battles that transformed the Near East with an evocative portrait of medieval Jerusalem, this is an astonishing look at a forgotten side of the first Crusades. You can find Sharan online at: Sharan Newman's website Sharan's Facebook Fan Page The LagyKillers Blog Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook In this lesson we discuss: Sharan's background Crusader States Queen Melisende Writing advice And more... Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Sound clips from National Geographic Channel and The Da Vinci Code

Jacques de Molay the 23rd and final Grand Master of The Poor Fellow Soldiers of Christ and the Temple of Solomon, better know as The Knights Templar. The Knights Templar formed in 1119 and quickly rose in power and wealth. With help from the church they were able to amass a fortune in money and property. They were fierce warriors of God that set out to protect the Holy Land and Christian pilgrims. Lead by Jacques de Molay in the late 13th Century the Knights Templar were the wealthiest institution in Europe. They revolutionized the banking industry, granting lines of credit and loaning money to the Nobles and Kings of Europe. A Templar Knight is truly a fearless knight, and secure on every side, for his soul is protected by the armour of faith, just as his body is protected by the armour of steel. He is thus doubly armed, and need fear neither demons nor men. ~Bernard de Clairvaux King Philip IV of France, with the help of Pope Clement V, plotted to dissolve the Templar Order, seize their treasure and rule a new Order of Knights. On Friday the 13th, October 1307 King Philip arrested Jacques de Molay and thousands of Knights Templar all across France. The Knights were tortured until they confessed heresy. Jacques de Molay recanted his confession and Pope Clement V ordered his execution along with senior members of the Knights Templar. On 18 March 1314, 700 years ago this month, Jacques de Molay was burned at the stake for heresy and devil worship, with his last breath he placed a curse on King Philip and Pope Clement. After the death of de Molay the Knights disbanded and their fleet of ships disappeared along with all their treasure. In this lesson we will examine the life and death of Jacques de Molay, the Origin of the Knights Templar, the treasures they held and the conspiracy theories that surround them. Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook In this episode we discuss: Jacques de Molay Knights Templar and the Crusades Origins of the Knights Templar Downfall of Jacques de Molay and The Knights Templar Knights Templar Conspiracy Theory And more... Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Sound clips from National Geographic Channel and The Da Vinci Code

In the Middle Ages torture was used for a variety of reasons, to gain information, to purify heretics and to punish criminals. In this lesson of the Medieval Archives Podcast we are going to explore medieval torture and the devices used by medieval torturers. Devices of pain, torment and mutilation used by the Church to punish heretics and blasphemers. You'll even find out which Pope issued a papal bull condoning the use of torture! Join us on the dark side of the Middle Ages as we explore Medieval Torture. Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! ...inflicted on them unutterable tortures; for never were any martyrs so tortured as they were. Some they hanged up by the feet, and smoked them with foul smoke; and some by the thumbs, or by the head, and hung coats of mail on their feet. They tied knotted strings about their heads, and twisted them till the pain went to the brains. ~Anglo-Saxon Chronicles Listen to the episode now Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook In this episode we discuss Medieval Torture devices like: The Rack Judas Cradle The Pear of Anguish Pillory Iron Maiden And more... Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Sound clips from Ancient Discoveries, Modern Marvels and Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure

The Kingdom of Jerusalem was the most powerful Crusader State in the Middle Ages. Melisende, the daughter of King Baldwin II, would rule Jerusalem after the death of her father. A power struggle with her husband, Fulk V, led to a divided Kingdom. Finally in 1143 she became the sole ruler of Jerusalem, but still faced concerns of the Muslims invading and her son Baldwin III coming of age. Queen Melisende would rule Jerusalem for 22 years defending the Crusader states against Muslim attacks and supporting art and architecture in the Holy Land. Join us as we visit the Kingdom of Jerusalem and the reign of Queen Melisende. ...she was a very wise woman, fully experienced in almost all affairs of state business, who completely triumphed over the handicap of her sex so she could take charge of important affairs...striving to emulate the glory of the best princes, Melisende ruled the kingdom with such ability that she was rightly considered to have equaled her predecessors in that regard. ~William of Tyre Listen to the episode now Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook In this episode we discuss: Crusader States The Battle of the Field of Blood Marriage to Fulk V Second Crusade Kingdom of Jerusalem And more... Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

03 February 2014 marks the 1,000th anniversary of the death of King Sweyn Forkbeard. Once Forkbeard became the King of Denmark and Norway he started raiding England. After the English massacred thousands of Danes on St. Brice's Day Forkbeard increased his raids until he was able to overthrow the sitting King. Sweyn would never have a chance to rule England, he died shortly after becoming King. Some say he was killed by the ghost of St. Edmund! His reign was short, in fact he holds the record for shortest reign of an English King. But his reign helped establish his son, Cnut as a future King of England. Year 1004: This year came Sweyne with his fleet to Norwich, plundering and burning the whole town. Then he came to Thetford within three weeks after they had plundered Norwich; and, remaining there one night, they spoiled and burned the town; but, in the morning, as they were proceeding to their ships, came Ulfkytel with his army, and said that they must there come to close quarters. And, accordingly, the two armies met together; and much slaughter was made on both sides. ~Anglo-Saxon Chronicles Listen to the episode now Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook In this episode we discuss: Harald Bluetooth and technology St. Brice's Day Massacre Danegeld Ethelred the Unready The Ghost of St. Edmund And more... Bluetooth Technology Runes, listen to the lesson to discover how it was named! Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

January 2014 marks the 1,200th anniversary of the death of Charlemagne. He started his reign at the age of 26 as the King of the Franks. By the time of his death in 814 he was the Holy Roman Emperor and ruled the majority of continental Europe. Join us today as we examine the life of Charlemagne. We'll look at his military exploits, how he was able to grow his empire and become the first Holy Roman Emperor. Charlemagne's greatness didn't end on the battlefield. He set out to reform education, religion and government giving rise to the Carolingian Renaissance. Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this lesson we talk about Charlemagne's grandfather, Charles Martel. Listen to our lesson on The Battle of Tours to learn more about Charles Martel. In this episode we discuss: Charlemagne's Character Charlemagne's Army The Saxon Wars The Bloody Verdict of Verdun The Battle of Roncevaux And more... Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

For 4000 years China has been an innovative society, starting with the Great Wall and the Grand Canal. In the Middle Ages China invented item after item that revolutionized the world for centuries to come. Some of them we still use today! Things that we take for granted; paper money, kites, folding umbrellas and playing cards, just to name a few. Join us as we examine the inventions from Medieval China that changed history! We'll look at inventions in agriculture, navigation, communication and warfare to see how they came about and how they traveled the medieval world. Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudioBook Last week I reviewed the new CD by the band Perkelt, you can hear their original song Pilgrim in this episode. You can buy their CD Dowry of a Troll Lady on CDBaby. Find them on the web at http://www.perkelt.com/ and on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/perkeltmusic. Thanks to band member Will Connor for providing the song! Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now Items discussed in this lesson: Chinese Agricultural inventions The Great Stirrup Controversy Viking Navigation: Find out more on The Vikings Podcast Episode 102 The Ming Dynasty Emperors toilet paper order Silk Road And more... Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

2013 is coming to a close. That means it's time for a year in review wrap up of the year's medieval events and we have a special guest, Peter from Medievalists.net! We discuss 10 of the top medieval stories of 2013. You can find the write up for the Top 10 Stories on Medievalists.net (http://www.medievalists.net/2013/12/26/top-10-medieval-news-stories-of-2013/) Listen to the episode now Got questions? Want to leave a comment? Send an email to podcast@medievalarchives.com and let me know what you're thinking! If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Medievalists.net You can find Peter (and his partner Sandra) over at Medievalists.net. On Twitter at https://twitter.com/Medievalists and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Medievalistsnet/5740303430 In this episode we discuss: King Richard III Crac des Chevaliers The Bayeux Tapestry VIKINGS J.R.R. Tolkien's new book And much, much more... Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/FreeBook Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

The Hundred Years' War raged for over 100 years and divided England and France like never before. Today on the Medieval Archives Podcast we look at a battle during the last phase of the Hundred Years' War, The Battle of Agincourt. King Henry V of England, vastly outnumbered fought for his Kingdom and his life. Find out how he lead a weary band of men against insurmountable odds. Will Henry survive? Will he defeat the French? Find out in this episode of the Medieval Archives Podcast. Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: Origins of the Hundred Years' War Henry V French Superiority Death of Chivalry Treaty of Troyes Hollow Crown And more... Agincourt Carol Lyrics Listen to it on YouTube Deo gratias Anglia redde pro victoria! [England, give thanks to God for victory!] Owre Kynge went forth to Normandy With grace and myght of chyvalry Ther God for hym wrought mervelusly; Wherefore Englonde may call and cry Chorus Deo gratias![Thanks to God] Deo gratias Anglia redde pro victoria! [England, give thanks to God for victory!] He sette sege, forsothe to say, To Harflu towne with ryal aray; That toune he wan and made afray That Fraunce shal rewe tyl domesday. Chorus Then went hym forth, owre king comely, In Agincourt feld he faught manly; Throw grace of God most marvelsuly, He had both feld and victory. Chorus Ther lordys, erles and barone Were slayne and taken and that full soon, Ans summe were broght into Lundone With joye and blisse and gret renone. Chorus Almighty God he keep owre kynge, His peple, and alle his well-wyllynge, And give them grace wythoute endyng; Then may we call and savely syng: Chorus Watch the Mock trial of Henry V: http://www.c-spanvideo.org/program/id/221111 Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudibleOffer Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

October is a battle weary month in the Middle Ages with no fewer than six major battles! This month we are going to discuss a couple of the battles. In this episode we are going to look at the Battle of Tours in 732. The Battle of Tours pitted the Frankish Christian army led by Charles Martel against the Muslim army led by Adbul Rahman. It was a battle that would define the future of Europe. Charles Martel, the 'Defender of the Christain Faith,' the father of the Carolingian Empire, can he defeat a vastly superior Saracen army? Find out in this episode! Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: Muslim Invasion of Gaul Abdul Rahman Al Gahfiqi Charles Martel Battle of Toulouse Battle of Tours And more... Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudibleOffer Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

Listen to the episode now People in the Middle Ages had their share of diseases. But unlike today they didn't have vaccinations or antibiotics to help them out. Today we are going to look at medieval diseases and the cures that did or in most cases did not work. We'll see if getting sick in the middle ages meant certain death. We'll also look at some cures for everyday occurrences like nasal congestion and baldness. Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! In this episode we discuss: A disease that can live in your body for 20 years and is still around today! Effects of eating poisonous fungi "THE" disease of the Middle Ages! Medieval cure for baldness Bloodletting And more... Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudibleOffer Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

French King Louis VIII who as a young Prince invaded England with the support of the English barons with the hope of taking the throne from King John. He would rise to King in France and take part in the Albigensian Crusade to gain back his lands in Southern France. In this episode we'll look at his invasion of England, participation in the crusades, his rise to King of France and his untimely death. Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: First Barons' War Siege of Dover (1216) Albigensian Crusade And more... Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudibleOffer Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

What if all the fairy tales we know and love came from one 15-year-old medieval girl? That is the premise of Andrea Cefalo's novel, The Fairytale Keeper. Today on the Medieval Archives Podcast we talk to Andrea about her books, how she came up with the idea and her love of the middle ages. We also discuss her second book in the series The Fairest of Them All and the Kickstarter campaign she started for the book. Listen to the episode now The Fairytale Keeper Synopsis: Adelaide’s mother, Katrina, was the finest storyteller in all of Airsbach, a borough in the great city of Cologne, but she left one story untold, that of her daughter, that of Snow White. Snow White was a pet name Adelaide’s mother had given her. It was a name Adelaide hated, until now. Now, she would give anything to hear her mother say it once more. A rampant fever claimed Adelaide’s mother just like a thousand others in Cologne where the people die without last rites and the dead are dumped in a vast pit outside the city walls. In an effort to save Katrina’s soul, Adelaide’s father obtains a secret funeral for his wife by bribing the parish priest, Father Soren. Soren commits an unforgivable atrocity, pushing Adelaide toward vengeance. When Adelaide realizes that the corruption in Cologne reaches far beyond Soren, the cost of settling scores quickly escalates. Avenging the mother she lost may cost Adelaide everything she has left: her father, her friends, her first love, and maybe even her life. Seamlessly weaving historical events and Grimm’s fairy tales into a tale of corruption and devotion, The Fairytale Keeper, leaves the reader wondering where fact ends and fiction begins. The novel paints Medieval Cologne accurately and vividly. The story develops a set of dynamic characters, casting the famous villains, heroes, and damsels of Grimm’s fairy tales into believable medieval lives. Though historically set, The Fairytale Keeper brims with timeless themes of love, loyalty, and the struggle for justice. Find Andrea on the internet: Website: http://andreacefalo.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndreaCefalo Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/andeacefalo/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/AndreaCefalo Kickstarter Campaign: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/830974252/the-fairest-of-all-book-two-in-the-fairytale-keepe Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudibleOffer Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

I was first introduced to archaeology as a kid and up on the movie screen was a whip carrying, fedora wearing relic hunter. When Indiana Jones wasn't fighting Nazis or running for his life he was on a quest to gather ancient artifacts. Today on the Medieval Archives Podcast we are going to examine real life archaeology, not the fictional portrayal. Since the discovery of Richard III in the Leicester car park there have been numerous other medieval archaeology discoveries. Medieval knights, dungeons, Black Death skeletons and so much more! Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: Knights found in car parks Medieval dungeons unearthed Crusaders spreading leprosy Alfred the Great Black Death burial grounds And more... Here are the links to the stories we discuss: Medieval Knight remains found in Edinburgh via The Scotsman Alfred the Great remains exhumed via The Guardian Scottish medieval village uncovered via Selkirk Weekend Advertiser Black Death Burial site via The Guardian Beverly Saturday Market medieval discovery via This is Hull and East Riding Faversham medieval dungeon via This is Kent University of Winchester leprosy discovery via BBC Visit the Winchester Archaeology site for all their dig information: http://www.warg.org.uk/ Anglo-Saxon Church found under Lincoln Castle via Daily Mail Richard III Update via Sky News Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudibleOffer Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

Dr. Samuel Stokes joins the Podcast for an interview about his music and medieval influences. For his doctorate dissertation in Music Theory, he composed a symphony inspired by Eustace the Monk, the 13th century pirate. In episode 3 of the Medieval Archives Podcast I covered Eustace the Monk. In this episode Dr. Stokes and I discuss his love of music and how it turned into wiritng songs, musicals and a symphony! Stick around after the interveiw, Dr. Stokes provided the second and third movement of his symphony for the podcast listeners to enjoy. It's fantastic, you won't want to miss it! Symphony No. 1 "Eustace the Monk" Composer: Dr. Samuel Stokes Conductor: Bethany Ring Performed by the LSU Philharmonia Orchestra Thanks to Dr. Stokes for joining the podcast! Please send any comments, suggestions or topic ideas to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: Dr. Stokes introduction to music How he creates his music His musical influences His Medieval Musicals Symphony No. 1 "Eustace the Monk" And more... You can find Dr. Stokes online at: Website: http://www.samuelstokesmusic.com/ Website: http://yearofsong.blogspot.com/ YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/samstokes80 Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/samstokes80 Google+: https://plus.google.com/104843402802929218403/posts Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudibleOffer Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

The Pope, the Bishop of Rome, successor of Saint Peter and leader of the Catholic Church. Pious men aspire to the chair and humbly accept the position. At least that's what we'd like to believe. But not all popes were righteous men, some weren't even Christian! In this episode of the Medieval Archives Podcast we are going to look at some of the worst Popes of the Middle Ages. I play a music clip during the episode provided by The History Teachers. They produce fantastic historical songs set to current and classic hits! Visit their sites and support their music. They are inspiring history students across the globe. Find The History Teachers on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/historyteachers, on Twitter at https://twitter.com/historyteacherz and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/historyteacherz. Please send any comments or suggestions to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: A Pope who put his dead predecessor on trial The Pope who ran a male brothel The Pope who gave us the Pornocracy A ruler who deposed three Popes and installed his own A Pope so despicable they gave him a TV show And more... Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudibleOffer Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

Welcome to the premiere episode of the Vikings Podcast! I’ve put together a brief episode to introduce the actors and the characters they play. There are a few sound clips from the show and the show format is discussed. Vikings premieres on 03 March 2013 on The History Channel USA & Canada. Find the podcast on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-vikings-podcast/id611038251?mt=2 Vikings Synopsis: The adventures of Ragnar Lothbrok the greatest hero of his age. The series tells the sagas of Ragnar's band of Viking brothers and his family, as he rises to become King of the Viking tribes. As well as being a fearless warrior, Ragnar embodies the Norse traditions of devotion to the gods, legend has it that he was a direct descendant of Odin, the god of war and warriors' Listen to the episode now Cast of Characters: Character Actor Ragnar Lothbrock ... Travis Fimmel Lagertha ... Katheryn Winnick Rollo ... Clive Standen Earl Haraldson ... Gabriel Byrne Siggy ... Jessalyn Gilsig Floki ... Gustaf Skarsgård Athelstan ... George Blagden Bjorn Lothbrock ... Nathan O’Toole Leif ... Dairmaid Murtagh Svein ... David Pearse Ancient Seer ... John Kavanagh You can also follow a few of the Vikings cast members on Twitter: George Blagden: is @gblagden Katheryn Winnick: is @katherynwinnick Clive Standen: @clivestanden Travis Fimmel fan account: @Team_Travis Vikings offcial account: @HistoryVikings Send in your comments and feedback by calling the listener voicemail line at 720.722.1066 or send an email to feedback@thevikingspodcast.com Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you never miss a single episode. Direct Download (MP3) | Subscribe in iTunes | Miro | RSS

The medieval-verse was all abuzz the last couple of weeks about an exciting archaeology find. Back in August 2012 the University of Leicester started a search for the lost remains of King Richard III. Richard was killed during the Battle of Bosworth, the final major battle of the Wars of the Roses. King Richard's death is significant for a few reasons. He was the last King of England to die in battle and his death marks the end of the medieval period. The victor at Bosworth, Henry Tudor, starts the dynasty of the smae name that would last for over 100 years! In this episode we will look at the history of Richard and find out how the youngest of four brothers rose to throne of England. We also examine the controversies that surround him including the Princes in the Tower and if he was a disfigured hunchback. But the real exciting part is the dig in Leicester! We'll listen in to the DNA test announcements and the description of his wounds at Bosworth. Please send any comments or suggestions to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: Richard III: The Last Warrior King Princes in the Tower Hunchback or Tudor Propaganda Richard III Society And more... Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudibleOffer Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. iTunes | Stitcher Radio | Download MP3 | RSS Feed The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com

It's that time of year again. The full moon is out and the night gets a little spookier. But have no fear, we are here to help you make it through the Halloween season. And what better way than to talk about flesh eating zombies! Now I haven't gone completely mad. We will look at two examples of how the dead walked the earth in medieval times and a historian who recorded numerous episodes of the undead. Grab a pumpkin ale, turn the lights down low and let's explore the medieval zombie apocalypse. If you would like more Halloween episodes you can listen to the Haunted Castle series or last years Dracula episode. Please send any comments or suggestions to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: The Draugr The Revenant William of Newburgh The Raven Night of the Living Dead And more... Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudibleOffer Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. Knight Vs. Undead Image by TrickorTreat The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Some sound clips courtesy of White Zombie. Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

Sarah Gristwood, the acclaimed author, joins us for an interview about her new book Blood Sisters: The Hidden Lives of the Women Behind the Wars of the Roses. Most of the history of the Wars of the Roses is written through the eyes of the kings and men who fought the battles. In Blood Sisters, Sarah takes a look at the influence and impact of the women involved. It is a fascinating book which offers a fresh perspective and a glimpse into the lives of the women of the medieval era and how they help shape history. Whether you're a Yorkist or Lancastrian you are sure to enjoy this episode! You can find Sarah and her books on the following websites: Sarah Gristwood's Website: http://www.sarahgristwood.co.uk/ Sarah's Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/sarah.gristwood.1 Perseus Book Group: http://www.perseusbooksgroup.com/perseus/index.jsp If you want to take a tour that follows the Wars of the Roses or events during the Tudor era, Sarah recommends Alison Wier Tours. Check them out at http://www.alisonweirtours.com/ I would also like to thank Katherine at Harper Collins Press (www.harpercollins.co.uk ) for setting up the interview. Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: Sarah's background and writing style Finding primary sources on medieval women How strong, medieval women were received Richard III's DNA record Sarah's historical fiction novel The Girl in the Mirror And more... Please send any comments or suggestions to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Get your free audio book from Audible at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudibleOffer Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

I'm excited to have Peter and Sandra on from Medievalists.net. We covered all sorts of topics, including their love for other historical periods and the state of history programming on television. We even managed to get a Honey Boo Boo reference in, yikes! (I apologize now for including that link...) I guess it's safe to say we had a great time during the interview. I hope you enjoy it as well. A big thank you to Peter and Sandra for coming on the podcast! Please send any comments or suggestions to podcast@medievalarchives.com If you are enjoying the podcast please considering leaving a rating on iTunes. Rate the Medieval Archives Podcast now! Listen to the episode now In this episode we discuss: How Peter and Sandra met How they found a love for the Middle Ages Their thoughts on Game of Thrones, medieval based video games and medieval entertainment The state of history based television The possible discovery of Richard III And more... Medievalists.net on the internet Medievalists.net eMail: medievalists.net@gmail.com Official Webpage: www.medievalists.net Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Medievalistsnet/5740303430 Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/Medievalists Their other websites are: History of the Ancient World Official Webpage: www.historyoftheancientworld.com Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/History-of-the-Ancient-World/230837303592 Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/historyancient Early Modern England Official Webpage: www.earlymodernengland.com Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Early-Modern-England/397291705477 Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/englandhistory American Civil War Official Webpage: www.americancivilwar.ca Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/American-Civil-War/180337528713790 Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/rebelsoryankees The War of 1812 Official Webpage: www.thewarof1812.net Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-War-of-1812/211471598940803 Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/TheRedCoats1812 Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudibleOffer Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

The Middle Ages conjures images of wise, warrior Kings and beautiful Queens. Well this episode we are going to shatter that image! Get ready to dive into the crazy world of insane kings and diabolical madmen. Years of inbreeding the royal blood is bound to have an effect sooner or later. We'll investigate kings, queens and counts that went bat crazy during their reigns. Thanks for listening and subscribing to the podcast. Please send any comments or suggestions to podcast@medievalarchives.com Listen to the episode now In this episode you'll discover: The King who thought he was made of glass The Queen who embraced her died husband nightly The crusading Prince who tortured and displayed his victims The insane King who laughed and sang while a battle was raging And more... Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.medievalarchives.com/AudibleOffer Download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

When Adam delved and Eve span, Who then was the gentleman? The Peasants' Revolt of 1381 was one of a number of popular revolts in late medieval Europe and is a major event in the history of England. Led by Wat Tyler the peasant's rose up against the ruling class. Were they successful? Or did they fail and meet the executioners axe? Find out in the latest episode of the Medieval Archives Podcast Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.audibletrial.com/MedievalArchives You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the links below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed. Direct Download | iTunes | RSS Feed

The mini series comes to an end. Will they finish the cathedral or will Waleran block all attempts? Will Jack find out the truth about his father? Everything gets answered in the final episode! Join us as we finish our trip through The Pillars of the Earth. This week we recap/review episode eight "The Work of Angels" of the Starz Original series The Pillars of the Earth. Set in the the 12th century The Pillars of the Earth tells the story of King Stephen's reign over England and the 19 year period of Anarchy. Pillars of the Earth Synopsis This epic tale of passion and greed begins when a mysterious secret disrupts the succession to the English crown and an unlikely member of King Henry's family takes the throne. A power struggle between Henry's daughter, Maud, and nephew, Stephen, causes England to be torn by war as battles rage for the rightful heir. Meanwhile, Bishop Waleran Bigod and the Hamleigh family manipulate the conflict to satisfy their own ruthless ambitions. Within this tumultuous setting, Prior Philip fights insurmountable obstacles to keep Kingsbridge and his dream of building a magnificent cathedral alive. The task is daunting, but master-mason Tom Builder, his gifted stepson, Jack, and noblewoman Aliena work together to achieve their dreams. And in the process, the long-hidden secret is revealed. Episode 8 "The Work of Angels" Ten years later, Jack’s fixation with the cathedral leaves him little time or energy for anything else, while Aliena’s fixation with the distant Earldom of Shiring has married her to Alfred, a man she hates. Waleran and Alfred develop a plot to get rid of Jack for good and it seems to be working until evidence comes to light that makes all wrongs rectified. Topics Discussed: Episode Recap Episode Review History Lesson: What was correct and what was incorrect Prince Henry vs Prince Eustace Treaty of Wallingford World Without End preview Cast of Characters: Ian McShane as Waleran Bigod Donald Sutherland as Earl Bartholomew Rufus Sewell as Tom Builder Matthew Macfadyen as Prior Philip Tony Curran as King Stephen Alison Pill as Princess Maude Sarah Parish as Regan Hamleigh Robert Bathurst as Percy Hamleigh David Oakes as William Hamleigh Goetz Otto as Walter Hayley Atwell as Aliena Sam Claflin as Richard Liam Garrigan as Alfred Builder Skye Bennett as Martha Builder Gordon Pinsent as the Archbishop Eddie Redmayne as Jack Jackson Natalia Wörner as Ellen Anatole Taubman as Remigius Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.audibletrial.com/MedievalArchives You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

Dan Snow, historian and award winning TV presenter takes a few minutes out of his busy schedule to talk to the Medieval Archives. Trained in the hallowed halls of Oxford University, Dan ventured into TV for a WWII Documentary and hasn't looked back. His past medieval documentaries explored 1066 and The Battle of Hastings, Norman Walks through Norman castles of Britain and the filthy streets of medieval London. Currently he is the host of Battle Castles, a documentary series focusing on six medieval castles and their history. Battle Castle can be seen Thursday nights on History Television Canada and will be airing on the BBC later this year. In this episode you will discover: Dan's Favorite historical period and movie Dan's Favorite Battle Castle location His crazy experience's filming historical documentaries And much more... All historians will want to hear this episode! I would like to thank Dan for taking time out of his busy schedule to visit with the Medieval Archives Podcast. It was a great interview and great talking with him. Connect with Dan Snow today! Dan Snow Twitter Profile Dan's History Facts Twitter Profile Dan Snow Production Company: Ballista Media You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

Battle Castle, the outstanding castle documentary series, explores the medieval history of six castles. Today we have an interview with Sean F. White, the Director of Photography for Battle Castle. I talk with Sean about filming the castles and the siege engines in action. We also cover how the re-enactments were filmed. In this episode you will discover: The role of the Director of Photogrpahy His approach to visually capturing the castles The adventurous side of Sean as he films the castles The secret location where they filmed the re-enactments Which episode was filmed in 3D And much more... It's another great interview you won't want to miss! A big thanks to Sean for taking time out of his busy schedule to talk with the Medieval Archives podcast Connect with Battle Castle today! Battle Castle Website Battle Castle Facebook fan page Battle Castle Twitter profile Battle Castle Youtube channel Connect with Sean F. White Sean's Web Page Sean's Twitter Profile Sean's Facebook page You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

Battle Castle, the outstanding castle documentary series, explores the medieval history of six castles. Today we have an interview with Nicole Tomlinson, writer for Battle Castle. I talk to Nicole about writing for the series and how she approached the research process. We also cover how the castles were picked, castles that were left out, and their use of social media. In this episode you will discover: Nicole's favorite castle Where she would like to explore next A castle visit cut short due to political uprisings The man who sold his condo to build siege weapons And much more... You won't want to miss this episode! I would like to thank Nicole for taking the time to visit with the Medieval Archives Podcast. It was a great interview and she is a wonderful person. Connect with Battle Castle today! Battle Castle Website Battle Castle Facebook fan page Battle Castle Twitter profile Battle Castle Youtube channel You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

England is gripped by war, political stirfe and treachery. And in the midst of it all a towering cathedral, a beacon of love and hope is erected. Will Philip raise again after being removed as prior? Will Aliena be able to find Jack in France? And will work continue on the cathedral after the collapse? Join us as we continuing our trip through The Pillars of the Earth. This week we recap/review episode seven "New Beginnings" of the Starz Original series The Pillars of the Earth. Set in the the 12th century The Pillars of the Earth tells the story of King Stephen's reign over England and the 19 year period of Anarchy. Pillars of the Earth Synopsis This epic tale of passion and greed begins when a mysterious secret disrupts the succession to the English crown and an unlikely member of King Henry's family takes the throne. A power struggle between Henry's daughter, Maud, and nephew, Stephen, causes England to be torn by war as battles rage for the rightful heir. Meanwhile, Bishop Waleran Bigod and the Hamleigh family manipulate the conflict to satisfy their own ruthless ambitions. Within this tumultuous setting, Prior Philip fights insurmountable obstacles to keep Kingsbridge and his dream of building a magnificent cathedral alive. The task is daunting, but master-mason Tom Builder, his gifted stepson, Jack, and noblewoman Aliena work together to achieve their dreams. And in the process, the long-hidden secret is revealed. Episode 7 "New Beginnings" As a result of his travels, Jack has learned how to fulfill Tom Builder’s dream of a cathedral filled with light. Aliena tracks Jack by following the trail of his carvings. Waleran offers Philip a new position but it means that Philip must always obey Waleran. Kingsbridge becomes prosperous again, infuriating Regan and William, who plan an attack meeting resistance from Richard, Jack and Philip. NOTE: Ken Follett has a cameo role in this episode as the merchant who tells Jack the story of his father's sailing. Topics Discussed: Episode Recap Episode Review History Lesson: What was correct and what was incorrect Robert, 1st Earl of Gloucester Abbott Sugar Saint Denis Abbey Cast of Characters: Ian McShane as Waleran Bigod Donald Sutherland as Earl Bartholomew Rufus Sewell as Tom Builder Matthew Macfadyen as Prior Philip Tony Curran as King Stephen Alison Pill as Princess Maude Sarah Parish as Regan Hamleigh Robert Bathurst as Percy Hamleigh David Oakes as William Hamleigh Goetz Otto as Walter Hayley Atwell as Aliena Sam Claflin as Richard Liam Garrigan as Alfred Builder Skye Bennett as Martha Builder Gordon Pinsent as the Archbishop Eddie Redmayne as Jack Jackson Natalia Wörner as Ellen Anatole Taubman as Remigius Get your free audio book from Audible.com at: http://www.audibletrial.com/MedievalArchives You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.

It's 2012! I hope you all had a safe and happy new year. We are kicking off the new year with an interview with Historical Fiction author Christy English. Christy is a writer of historical fiction centering on Eleanor of Aquitaine, Alais of France, and the Plantagenets of the 12th Century. Her latest book is To Be Queen: A Novel of the Early Life of Eleanor of Aquitaine. During the interview we discuss her novels, her love of Eleanor of Aquitaine and the challenges of writing about a historical figure. We also discuss her writing process and her favorite authors. It is a fantastic interview! Click the links below to visit her website or buy her books. Website: ChristyEnglish.com Books: To Be Queen: A Novel of the Early Life of Eleanor of Aquitaine Twitter: @ChristyEnglish You can listen to the episode below. Or download the MP3 and listen to it on your favorite MP3 player. Subscribe to the feed so you do not miss a single episode. The opening music was provided by Tim Rayburn. It is available at Magnatune.com Use the icons below to download the .mp3 audio file, subscribe directly to iTunes or subscribe to the RSS feed.