Show Notes
In the medieval Middle East, no group was as feared as the Order of the Assassins - or as misunderstood. In this episode, Olivia and Aran chart the emergence of this deadly organisation and their role in the complex web of Middle Eastern politics. This episode has everything you could want: high-octane derring-do, arcane Islamic eschatology, thundering Mongol armies and yes: even a few scheming viziers. Come for the assassins, stay for Aran almost bursting a vessel trying to accurately explain all of early Islamic history in five minutes.
More from Weird Medieval Guys
As we all know, everyone in the middle ages lived and died in the muck. What's worse, they had no idea that being caked in shit and smelling terrible was bad. Or did they? Maybe instead they all just smelled like a mild curry...
"PEOPLE OF CAIRO, YOU LISTEN TO ME. GO INTO THE TREASURY, AND PUT YOUR HAND IN THE CASH REGISTER FOR NO REASON. THAT MONEY IS YOUR MONEY AS OF RIGHT NOW." al-Umari, attributed to Mansa Musa, 14th century
The movies are back, or so they say. But what makes a good medieval movie? Historical accuracy? Satisfying storytelling? The quality of the tassels? To find out, Aran, Olivia and Joe Mason reviewed five movies. Some of them were good, some of them were interesting, and some of them were Braveheart. Films reviewed: Braveheart (1995) The Northman (2022) The Green Knight (2021) The Kingdom of Heaven (2005) A Knight's Tale (2001)