The Scottish freedom fighter William Wallace is so deeply enveloped in mythology that finding the real man can seem almost impossible. His life story has doubled as both entertainment and propaganda since it was first recounted by the minstrel Blind Harry in the 1400's. The film Braveheart brought the larger-than-life myth of William Wallace to a whole new g ... Show More
Feb 2024
The Sex Life of William 'Braveheart' Wallace
If you've seen the film Braveheart, you might have certain expectations about the real history of William Wallace.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 against the E ... Show More
35m 58s
Aug 2021
SYMHC Classics: The Beheading of Sir Walter Raleigh
This 2018 episode covers the famed courtier, explorer, historian, Member of Parliament and soldier. He was part of England's defense against the Spanish armada, as well the Tudor conquest of Ireland, some of which was truly horrifying. According to some people, he is now a ghost. ... Show More
37m 48s
Jan 2025
Who Was the Real King Arthur?
<p>Was King Arthur a real historical figure or merely a mythical hero?</p><br><p>Tristan Hughes and Dr. Miles Russell delve into the myth and mystery of King Arthur, exploring the historical figures who may have inspired this legendary character, including Magnus Maximus, Emperor ... Show More
53m 22s
Jan 2021
Episode #125- What Are the Origins of Martial Arts? (Part II)
Martial arts myths are have been described as "savvy marketing". But, the most enduring bits of of fake martial arts history also combine Zen tradition, a Confucian veneration of the past, and a healthy dose of nationalism. Schools of martial arts will sometimes bend over backwar ... Show More
1h 13m
Jan 2022
Cyrano de Bergerac
Cyrano de Bergerac is often called a man of letters, a philosopher, a soldier, a duelist, a playwright and many more things. But what he may have been best at was self-invention. His real story is blurry to begin with, and he contributed to that blur, but it’s been even more obsc ... Show More
33m 33s
<p><em>This episode contains strong language, graphic scenes of torture and sexual content</em></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p>The chances are, when we think of William Wallace, we think of Mel Gibson in <em>Braveheart</em>, charging down a hill in a kilt with his face painted bl ... Show More