The Pastons were a prominent aristocratic family from around 1380 to 1750, with stakes in the dynamic politicking of the Tudor and Stuart courts. But, what really makes this family stand out is the huge collection of letters and documents they left behind, sharing everyday details about their lives. Emily Briffett spoke to Dr Karen Smyth to uncover what the ... Show More
Sep 14
What is ‘Europe’, anyway?
What defines Europe – is it geography, politics, a shared culture, or perhaps a mix of all three? In this episode, historian Roderick Beaton tells Emily Briffett about the ways in which it has been defined, and redefined, as an idea by its people over the centuries. ----- GO BEYO ... Show More
36m 59s
Sep 13
Christianity, conflict and catastrophe: the life of CS Lewis
He's well-known for creating children's classic The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, but what else can history teach us about CS Lewis? Michael Ward explores the life of the author with Isabel King – from a tragic childhood to his turbulent relationship with faith. ----- GO BEYO ... Show More
40m 38s
Mar 2024
How to Live Like a Stuart Aristocrat
<p>After the Restoration of the Monarchy, the upper classes took their cues from court life - its entertainments, costumes, food and leisure pursuits. The Stuart-era aristocracy were cultured, political, well educated, immoderate yet religious. So how did devotion and piety ... Show More
26m 34s
Oct 2024
Castles, Kings and Courtly Life
<p>All this month, Matt and Eleanor are ranging across England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland to discover the stories of our greatest castles.</p><br><p>In this episode, Eleanor looks at one of the most iconic and strategically important fortresses. Over the centuries, Stirling C ... Show More
37m 26s
Apr 2024
The Dudleys: The Family that Shook Tudor Court
<p>When it comes to families entwined in the intricate web of Tudor court affairs, none captivate me quite like the Dudleys. From Edmund Dudley to John Dudley, and finally Robert Dudley, their saga unfurled across the entirety of the Tudor era.</p>
<p>Today I welcome back in this ... Show More
41m 4s
Jul 2023
Scottish Kings' Sex Lives
One thing royal families strive for is the common touch. Whilst some have struggled with it, King James IV and V in the 15th and 16th centuries excelled in it. It could be said, however, they took the term ‘common touch’ too literally, as it wasn’t uncommon for them to have sexua ... Show More
47m 17s