Seven hundred years ago this August, Roger Mortimer broke out of the Tower of London and went on to mastermind the deposition of his captor and arch-enemy, Edward II. In conversation with Spencer Mizen, Paul Dryburgh explains why he believes the hugely talented baron was one of the most remarkable characters in medieval history – and could have cemented his ... Show More
Jul 25
Gods and monsters: the hidden stories of the Odyssey
Twenty years away from home: 10 of them spent fighting a war, and 10 more spent battling monsters, gods and his own worst instincts. In the second episode of HistoryExtra's four-part series on the Odyssey, Kev Lochun and classicist Daisy Dunn explore Odysseus's greatest adventure ... Show More
46m 33s
Jul 24
Preview: Was Elizabeth I one of history’s greatest leaders?
From her defeat of the Spanish Armada to her iconic portraiture and status as the ‘Virgin Queen’, Elizabeth I is one of the past’s most famous figures – but what made her such an effective leader? Today on the HistoryExtra podcast, we’re bringing you a taste of our new series, Hi ... Show More
12m 55s
Aug 2024
486. Henry IV: Warrior Princes and Fat Knights (Part 2)
The year is 1403, and the Usurper King, Henry IV, faces a seemingly insurmountable challenge to his rule. He has been brought the news that his old friend, Harry “Hotspur” Percy, has betrayed him, and plans to lead his army against the King. Meanwhile, to the West, the revolt in ... Show More
57m 9s
Feb 2023
Isabella of France: A Reign of Power and Intrigue
<p>Isabella of France and her husband Edward II's marriage was turbulent and marked by rumors of infidelity. Isabella's "affair" with Roger Mortimer, a powerful nobleman, became widely known and they plotted to overthrow Edward II. Their plot succeeded, resulting in Edward II's d ... Show More
1h 7m
Mar 2025
Edward II: King of Incompetence
<p>Gone Medieval begins a gripping 4 part series exploring scandal, power, and betrayal in the Plantagenet Court.</p><br><p>This one of England’s most dramatic royal sagas; from the ill-fated reign of Edward II to the rise of his son, Edward III, Matt Lewis and Dr. Eleanor Janega ... Show More
1h 16m
Aug 2024
485. Henry IV: The Usurper King (Part 1)
"Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown…”
Henry IV has been portrayed as both a shadowy, obscure figure, and a strong king who was loved by his people. Prior to ascending the throne, Henry, the son of John of Gaunt, was admired for his glamour, clemency, courage and strong fait ... Show More
1h 4m