The 14th century was an era of high drama in England – from the toppling of two kings and the Hundred Years’ War to the Black Death and Peasants’ Revolt. Speaking with Emily Briffett, bestselling historical author Alison Weir charts the dramatic lives and tangled legacies of five queen consorts during the turbulent ‘Age of Chivalry’.
Read more on the debat ... Show More
Yesterday
Was Elizabeth II's reign a golden age?
When the late Queen acceded to the throne in 1952, Britain, though left bankrupt and reeling from the Second World War, was still a major global power. By the end of Elizabeth II’s reign in 2022 – the longest in Britain’s history – the nation and its place in the world was marked ... Show More
37m 45s
Aug 2023
Queen Guinevere & The Women of Arthurian Legend
Queen Guinevere, Morgan le Fey and Nimue, the mystical lady of the lake have been cast as heroins, virtuous women and wicked femme fatals by the many people who have retold the legend of King Arthur over 1500 years. I'll sketch the highlights of the story, galloping past the oft ... Show More
31m 17s
Mar 2024
Transgender & Non-Binary Royals & Nobles
Throughout history, across cultures and in every walk of life, there have always been people whose identity went beyond the two-gender mold. And those who do not fit the gender assigned to them at birth. Though people in the past did not often have the concepts, terminology or re ... Show More
30m 24s
Feb 2024
The Sex Life of William 'Braveheart' Wallace
<p>If you've seen the film Braveheart, you might have certain expectations about the real history of William Wallace.</p><br><p>Separating fact from fiction can be tricky, but what do we really know about this iconic Scot, and the supposed relationships that sparked his rebellion ... Show More
35m 58s
Jun 2023
Boudica's Battle of Britain
<p>The Celtic queen who led a major uprising against the Roman Empire in ancient Britain, Boudica, is a name known throughout history. Her rebellion, fuelled by grievances against Roman oppression and with the aim of protecting her people, resulted in the destruction of numerous ... Show More
38m 55s