Beyond the Tudor Court: Trade, Faith and the Baltic World

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

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

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

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

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