Tudors Dynasty & Beyond

Today, I'm thrilled to welcome back the brilliant Sharon Bennett Connolly as we turn our attention to the often-overlooked daughters of Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry II of England. While their sons have long dominated the spotlight, it’s high time we gave their remarkable daughters the recognition they deserve! Sharon's Books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B072156Z8V?ccs_...

Today, we dive into the extraordinary life of John Dee — mathematician, astrologer, alchemist, and advisor to Queen Elizabeth I. A true Renaissance polymath, Dee’s mind spanned the scientific and the mystical, from celestial navigation to conversations with angels. But was he a genius ahead of his time or a man lost in the shadowy spaces between science and magic? Tune in as we explore the enigmat...

Today, Dr. Jemma Field returns to join Dr. Emma and me for a fascinating discussion about Anna of Denmark—her fashion, her portraits, and the influence she wielded at the Stuart court. -- Visit: Yale Center for British Art https://britishart.yale.edu/ -- Looking for a commercial-free experience? Head over to Patreon! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty -- Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma Guest:...

This episode explores the remarkable stories of Dido Elizabeth Belle and Sophia Duleep Singh—two women of royal lineage who challenged the expectations of their time. From Dido's unique position in Georgian England to Sophia’s activism in the suffragette movement, we uncover how they used their voices to fight for justice, identity, and equality in British history. -- Narrated by: Dr. Emma Cah...

In this episode, we journey back in time—long before the Tudors—to the final days of the Anglo-Saxon era and the dawn of the medieval age with William the Conqueror's invasion. Who were these men, and how did they shape the course of history? -- Paula's Website: https://www.threadstothepast.com/ Book shop mentioned: https://www.eastgrinsteadbookshop.co.uk/ Search for the Last Anglo-Saxon K...

Whenever I have the opportunity to debunk myths or bring to light the real history I am in my happy place. Dr. Johanna Strong joined me to look at Mary I in a way that we don't always see her - she was so much more than her "Bloody Mary" moniker! Today we discuss some of the injustices against her, her part in John Foxes Act and Monuments, the role of the queen in chess, Mary's relationship with K...

Female friendship in the Early Modern Period is often misunderstood. This episode explores the deep bonds between aristocratic and upper-middle-class women through their letters and diaries, revealing how language, space, and society shaped their relationships. - Find JoJo on Twitter/X as @dickinson_jojo -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: JoJo Dickinson

Dr. Elizabeth Norton joins me today for a fascinating discussion on women in history. We begin with Emma of Normandy and journey through time to Anne of Denmark, exploring the remarkable lives of these influential women. Elizabeth’s depth of knowledge on the subject is truly impressive, and I can’t wait for you to watch and share your thoughts! -- Website: http://www.elizabethnorton.co.uk/ Books o...

Today, I’m thrilled to share the story of two remarkable Stuart women who shaped history—Anne of Denmark and her daughter, Elizabeth Stuart, the legendary "Winter Queen." -- *Would you prefer a commercial-free experience, early access or exclusive content? Head over to PATREON ! *Like to read about history and people, places and events of the time? Check out my website where we cover man...

Today, I’m thrilled to welcome back my longtime friend and the ever-insightful historian, Leanda de Lisle. Together, we explore how faith shaped the Tudor dynasty, from Henry VIII’s seismic religious upheaval to Elizabeth I’s reign and the unifying vision of James I. Leanda's books Website: https://www.leandadelisle.com/about/ -- Looking for a commercial-free experience? Head over to Patreon !...

In this episode, I’m diving into all things Seymour! I’ll explore the origins of the Seymour family, the history of their famous estate, Wolf Hall, and the powerful (and sometimes rocky) relationships they had with Queens Mary I and Elizabeth I. We’ll also take a closer look at Anne Stanhope, the formidable Duchess of Somerset, and her role in the family's legacy. And, of course, I’ll tackle o...

Explore the lives of Empress Sisi of Austria and Queen Min of Korea—two powerful women who defied tradition, navigated political intrigue, and fought for their nations' futures, only to meet tragic ends. -- Narrated by: Rebecca Larson Researched by: Emily Airey

In this episode, I’m joined by historian and author Helene Harrison to discuss her book Elizabethan Rebellions . We explore how every major rebellion in Elizabeth I’s reign can be traced back to one pivotal moment—Mary, Queen of Scots fleeing to England. From the Northern Rebellion to the Babington Plot, we unravel how Mary’s presence became a catalyst for unrest and examine how these uprisings fi...

**Join us for a LIVE chat on Sunday, March 2 3rd (10am CDT/11am EDT/3pm GMT) on Zoom using passcode: 878586 Recent news suggests that the Wrest Park portrait may depict none other than Lady Jane Grey. In today’s episode, I’m joined by art historian Melanie Taylor and historian and author Sylvia Barbara Soberton to explore the evidence. Who is the true sitter—Jane Grey or someone else? Let’s find o...

Artemisia Gentileschi and Élisabeth Vigée-Lebrun were two trailblazing women who defied societal expectations to make their mark in the art world. Artemisia, a Baroque master, channeled personal struggle into her dramatic, emotionally charged works. At the same time, Élisabeth became one of the most sought-after portraitists of the 18th century, best known for her depictions of Marie-Antoinette. T...

Catherine of Braganza, Charles II’s Portuguese queen, faced political turmoil, religious strife, and a scandalous court—yet her influence endured. In this episode, historian Susan Abernethy  joins me to discuss her book on Catherine’s remarkable life, from royal duty to lasting legacy. Don’t miss this fascinating look at a queen who shaped England in unexpected ways! Book: Charles II's Portugu...

It's Women's History Month, and Dr. Emma joins me to explore the remarkable women of the Spanish monarchy. Get ready to dive into the stories of Katherine of Aragon (#KatherineofSpain), her mother, and her sisters. Should we be calling her Katherine of Spain instead of Katherine of Aragon? Was she secretly a spy? And which of the Trastámara sisters left behind the most powerful legacy? Tune in for...

Ada Lovelace and Florence Nightingale came from different worlds but shared a determination to defy expectations and change history. Ada, the visionary mathematician, laid the groundwork for modern computing, while Florence revolutionized healthcare and nursing. In this episode, we explore their groundbreaking achievements, the obstacles they overcame, and the lasting impact they left on technolog...

Today, I'm thrilled to welcome Adam Pennington to the show to discuss his new book, Henry VII and the Plantagenet Poles.  We dive into the fascinating story of Margaret Pole and her children, exploring the threat they posed to Henry VIII and his ruthless response. Our conversation also delves into Henry’s efforts to have Reginald Pole silenced. As direct descendants of George, Duke of Clarence...

Today, I'm joined by the wonderful Carol-Ann Johnston for a fascinating discussion about Jane Seymour and her family. As you know, I have a soft spot for the Seymours, so this episode was an absolute delight to record. I hope you enjoy it! Book: Jane Seymour: An Illustrated Life -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Carol-Ann Johnston

In honor of Women's History Month, today, I am airing a rerun episode where Dr. Nikki Clark joins me to discuss the ladies who served the Tudor queens. This fascinating topic attracts much interest, and we delve into everything from who these women were to how they were appointed and what roles they played. ⁠ The Waiting Game: The Untold Story of the Women Who Served the Tudor Queens ⁠ -- Credits:...

The wonderful Brigitte Webster returns to share her expertise on Tudor dining and cuisine! Did you know that in London, some people had homes without kitchens? In this episode, Brigitte reveals how and where they ate, along with fascinating insights into Tudor food and dining customs. Book: Eating with the Tudors -- Do you prefer a commercial-free experience? Head on over to Patreon ! Love to lear...

The brilliant Sophie Bacchus-Waterman returns to the show to explore the fascinating story of Anne Boleyn's psalter. What exactly was a psalter? Who gave it to Anne? And did she gift it to her mother before her execution? -- Prefer a COMMERCIAL-FREE experience? Head on over to Patreon ! Love to read about the Tudors and other parts of history? Check out my website: https://tudorsdynasty.com

Pauline Bonaparte and Maria Carolina of Naples—two women with power, ambition, and a deep loathing for each other. One, Napoleon’s scandalous sister; the other, a fierce Habsburg queen determined to destroy him. Their clash wasn’t just personal—it was political, shaping the fate of Europe. In this episode, we unravel their intense rivalry, the schemes, the scandals, and the battle for dominance in...

Today, I’m joined by art historian Melanie V. Taylor to explore a fascinating theory—could a long-overlooked miniature actually depict the secret son of Elizabeth I? For centuries, historians have insisted she had no children, but Melanie's research might just challenge everything we thought we knew. Melanie's book: Truth of the Line -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Melanie V. Taylor