Tudors Dynasty & Beyond

In this episode, I’m joined by historian and author Sharon Bennett Connolly to explore the fascinating lives of the women featured in her new book, Princesses of the Early Middle Ages - with a special focus on the often-overlooked illegitimate daughters of Henry I of England.We dive into the life of Sybilla of Normandy and her marriage to Alexander I of Scotland, discuss Matilda of Normandy and her politically important union with the Duke of Brittany, and uncover the dramatic and tragic story of Juliana - the daughter who famously turned against her own father and attempted to kill the king.From royal marriages and dynastic politics to rebellion, family tension, and heartbreak, this episode shines a light on the remarkable daughters of Henry I and the roles they played in shaping the medieval world.Order Princesses of the Early Middle Ages from Blackwells: https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/Princesses-of-the-Early-Middle-Ages-by-Sharon-Bennett-Connolly/9781399091022Sharon's Website: https://historytheinterestingbits.com/--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sharon Bennett Connolly

From lavish costumes and dramatic romances to wildly inaccurate timelines and completely unhinged plot twists, historical television gives us plenty to talk about. In this episode of Off the Record, we dive into some of our favorite historical TV series and discuss what they get right, what they get terribly wrong, and the moments that leave historians everywhere screaming at their screens. From brilliant casting and unforgettable storytelling to scenes so ridiculous they deserve an award of their own, nothing is off limits in this chat about the best — and worst — of historical television.--Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Amy McElroy

I'm joined once again by the brilliant historian Matt Lewis to hear the end of the story of Edward II, and then we move onto his son Edward III. As with all of these stories there are so many twists and turns - I'm not sure if I like Edward III or not after this chat...what do you think about him?--Support this podcast over on Patreon! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matthew Lewis

Mary Boleyn - the “great whore” of Tudor history…or the victim of a bad translation?In this episode, we dig into one of the most misunderstood women of the Tudor court and start peeling back the layers of myth that have followed her for centuries. Was Mary really the scandalous figure history made her out to be, or has her reputation been shaped by misread words and repeated assumptions?We take a closer look at the infamous mistranslation that helped cement her notoriety, and ask a deceptively simple question: was it actually Mary - or Anne Boleyn - who served Margaret of Austria?From there, we explore Mary’s place within the powerful Boleyn family, her relationships, and what those dynamics might really have looked like behind the scenes. And then there’s the mystery that raises more questions than answers - why did Mary remain a widow for so long before secretly marrying William Stafford? Was it love, necessity…or something else entirely?This is Mary Boleyn as you’ve rarely heard her - complicated, sidelined, and long overdue a second look.--Get from Blackwell's (even US residents) now: https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/Mary-Boleyn-by-Sylvia-Barbara-Soberton/9781837051014--DON'T MISS OUT!!SPECIAL EVENT on May 9th with Dr. Steven Veerapon on the medical history of Henry VIII. All the information can be found here: https://henrythetyrant.eventbrite.com--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sylvia Barbara Soberton

Edward II has often been remembered as a king who simply didn’t fit the role he inherited. In this episode, we trace his reign from the shadow of his formidable father, Edward I of England, through the controversies that defined his rule - his favoritism, his relationships, and his uneasy connection with the nobility. Why did his choices spark such intense opposition? And how did a king lose control of his own kingdom? As we follow Edward II’s story to his deposition, something unexpected emerges: a king increasingly aware of his own failures - offering, perhaps, a quiet kind of redemption at the very end.--Listen to Matt on Gone Medieval!--BIG ANNOUNCEMENT:SPECIAL EVENT on May 9th with Dr. Steven Veerapon on the medical history of Henry VIII. All the information can be found here: https://henrythetyrant.eventbrite.com--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matthew Lewis

In this episode, I’m joined by historian Sharon Bennett Connolly to explore the life of Katherine Swynford - her relationship with John of Gaunt, the scandal that shook the royal court, and how her legacy would shape the future of the English throne.--Sharon's Website: https://historytheinterestingbits.com/author/sharonbennettconnolly/Sharon's Upcoming Events: https://historytheinterestingbits.com/forthcoming-events/Sharon's Books on Amazon US:https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B072156Z8V?ccs_id=2752d8c6-9e4d-4cca-b600-6046103545e6--BIG ANNOUNCEMENT:SPECIAL EVENT on May 9th with Dr. Steven Veerapon on the medical history of Henry VIII. All the information can be found here: https://henrythetyrant.eventbrite.com--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sharon Bennett Connolly

What if Henry Tudor never made it out of England? What if Bosworth had gone differently? And how much of what we think we know about Henry VII is actually wrong?In this Off the Record episode, we're joined by historian Nathen Amin to dig into the myths, misconceptions, and fascinating “what ifs” surrounding England’s first Tudor king. From his years in exile with Jasper Tudor to the pivotal moment at Battle of Bosworth Field, we explore just how fragile Henry’s path to the throne really was.Would he have tried again if Bosworth had been lost? What if he had never fled into exile at all? Was his marriage to Elizabeth of York inevitable - or simply the best available option? And after her death, who might Henry have chosen next?We also tackle the question people love to ask (but rarely explore properly): was Henry VII a mama’s boy under the influence of Margaret Beaufort…or something far more calculated?This is Henry VII stripped of the textbook narrative - uncertain, strategic, and far more human than you might expect.--https://nathenamin.substack.com/--BIG ANNOUNCEMENT:SPECIAL EVENT on May 9th with Dr. Steven Veerapon on the medical history of Henry VIII. All the information can be found here: https://henrythetyrant.eventbrite.com--Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Amy McElroyGuest: Nathen Amin

Was Edward I of England a brilliant reformer—or a ruthless tyrant?In this episode, we dig into the life and reign of one of England’s most formidable kings. From legal reforms and the shaping of Parliament to his brutal campaigns in Wales and Scotland, Edward’s legacy is anything but simple. We explore the man behind the crown—his ambition, his grief after the death of Eleanor of Castile, and the decisions that still spark debate today.Was he building a stronger England…or ruling through fear?--BIG ANNOUNCEMENT:SPECIAL EVENT on May 9th with Dr. Steven Veerapon on the medical history of Henry VIII. All the information can be found here: https://henrythetyrant.eventbrite.com--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matt Lewis

In this episode, I’m joined by Sophie Bacchus-Waterman to challenge everything you think you know about Elizabeth Boleyn. If you’ve ever wondered whether Elizabeth Boleyn has been unfairly judged, this conversation will make you rethink everything.--Sophie's book:Blackwells Amazon (US) Sophie's Social Media:InstagramBlueskySophie's Substack--BIG ANNOUNCEMENT:SPECIAL EVENT on May 9th with Dr. Steven Veerapon on the medical history of Henry VIII. All the information can be found here: https://henrythetyrant.eventbrite.com--Credits:Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sophie Bacchus-Waterman

Welcome back to Off the Record!Today, Amy and I dive into women “behaving badly”…or at least, that’s how history chose to remember them. And yes—we’re fully aware that women were judged by a very different standard than men.From alleged husband-murdering, to sharp-tongued insults, to a mother refusing her son the money he demanded, and even a woman boldly owning an affair (and naming her son after her lover)…we unpack the stories behind the scandal.Were these women truly outrageous—or simply refusing to play by the rules? Let’s get into it.--Margaret Wotton article: https://tudorsdynasty.com/margaret-wotton-unnatural-mother/Book I mentioned: A Biographical Encyclopedia of Early Modern Englishwomen: Exemplary Lives and Memorable Acts, 1500-1650.--Hosts:Rebecca Larson & Amy McElroy

What do you do when your father is one of the worst kings in English history?This week, I’m joined by Matt Lewis to unpack the life of Henry III of England—a king who inherited chaos, uncertainty, and a seriously damaged crown after the disastrous reign of King John of England.We explore how Henry came to the throne as a child, what it meant to grow up in the shadow of his father’s failures, and the surprising role his mother, Isabella of Angoulême, played when she left England behind. What happened to Henry’s siblings? And how did those early years shape the kind of king he would become?From there, we look at Henry’s own family—his marriage, his children, and the legacy he hoped to build—while also asking a bigger question: was Henry’s reign really as peaceful as it’s often portrayed?It’s a story of recovery, reputation, and the long shadow of a bad king… and whether Henry III ever truly escaped it.--Henry III by Matthew Lewis: Amazon US--Support the podcast on Patreon! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matt Lewis

After exploring the husbands of Mary, Queen of Scots, Mary I of England, and Mary II of England, we now arrive at the final Stuart queen—Queen Anne—and the often-overlooked man at her side: Prince George of Denmark.In this overview episode of The Queen’s Husband, Dr. Linda Porter and I take a closer look at George—frequently dismissed as dull or insignificant—and ask whether that reputation is truly deserved. What role did he play in Anne’s life, both personally and politically? Was he simply a supportive consort, or is there more to his story than history has allowed?Join us as we reassess George of Denmark and explore the dynamics of one of Britain’s quieter—but perhaps more meaningful—royal marriages--Others in the series: (Spotify Link)The Queen's Husband: The Men Who Wed Mary, Queen of ScotsThe Queen's Husband: Philip IIThe Queen's Husband: William III--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Linda Porter

What does bad behavior really look like in Tudor England? In this episode, we take a sharp look at the men who pushed ambition, ego, and survival just a little too far.Charles Brandon turns marriage into strategy, Thomas Seymour spirals after the death of Henry VIII, and John Dudley plays the game for his own gain.Add in Francis Bryan—who needed papal absolution—and Edmund Howard with his questionable “medicine,” and you’ve got a lineup of men making very bad decisions.Messy, calculated, and peak Tudor chaos. 👑--Support our work over on Patreon! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Hosts:Rebecca Larson & Amy McElroy

What happens to the daughters of a king after everything falls apart?In this episode, we step into the turbulent aftermath of 1066 and follow the extraordinary—and often overlooked—lives of Gunhild of Wessex and Gytha of Wessex, daughters of Harold Godwinson—the last Anglo-Saxon king of England.Their stories are anything but quiet.One becomes a royal nun… who doesn’t quite stay that way. The other is swept into exile, navigating a world far beyond England’s shores, eventually tied to powerful dynasties abroad. These are women born into privilege, thrust into chaos, and forced to reinvent themselves in the shadow of conquest.From cloisters to courts, scandal to survival, we uncover how these sisters carved out lives that were anything but ordinary—and why their stories deserve far more attention.Because history didn’t end for Harold’s daughters at Hastings…it only got more interesting.--Website (and books): https://historytheinterestingbits.com/A Slice of Medieval Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@DerekBirks-t3o (wherever you get podcasts)--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sharon Bennett Connolly

This week, I’m joined by historian Dr. Steven Veerapen for a deep dive into one of history’s most fascinating—and controversial—figures: Mary, Queen of Scots.Was Mary a reckless romantic… or a ruler navigating an impossible political landscape?Together, we unravel the layers of her story—her queenship, her marriages, the scandal of Darnley’s murder, and the shadow of Bothwell. We also tackle the question that refuses to go away: was Mary truly guilty, or has history been too quick to condemn her?We explore her rivalry with Elizabeth I—was it real, or something shaped by later narratives? And how much did religion, gender, and perception influence the way Mary was judged, both in her own time and ever since?From political missteps to matters of the heart, from imprisonment to execution, this conversation looks at how Mary’s legacy was shaped—not just by what she did, but by how her story has been told.And, of course, we end with the biggest question of all…After everything—who was Mary, Queen of Scots, really?--Steven's Books: https://www.amazon.com/Books-Steven-Veerapen/s?rh=n%3A283155%2Cp_27%3ASteven%2BVeerapen--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Steven Veerapen

What makes a marriage work - especially in a world where love was often optional and politics were everything?In this episode of Off the Record, Amy and I dive into the messy, fascinating world of marriage in Tudor England - where alliances could build dynasties… or completely destroy them. We’re looking beyond Henry VIII’s famously disastrous relationships (don’t worry, he gets enough attention) and instead shining a light on other unions that reveal what “good” and “bad” really meant in the 16th century.From genuinely supportive partnerships like Henry VII and Elizabeth of York - where stability and mutual respect helped heal a kingdom - to deeply troubled matches like Thomas Howard, 3rd Duke of Norfolk and Elizabeth Stafford, where power struggles and personal cruelty played out behind closed doors… we’re breaking it all down.What did a “good marriage” actually look like in Tudor society? Was it about love, loyalty, survival—or simply staying out of trouble? And how do we even begin to judge these relationships by modern standards?Expect strong opinions, a few laughs, and plenty of moments where you’ll be glad you’re not navigating courtship in the 1500s.Because in Tudor England… marriage wasn’t just personal. It was political.--Hosts:Rebecca Larson Amy McElroy

My brother from another mother, Matt Lewis, is back—and we’re continuing the story of the children of Henry II of England (and Eleanor of Aquitaine). But since King John was…well…such an idiot, we decided to start with his sisters to make things far more enjoyable 😂And honestly? These women were incredible—sharp, capable, and miles ahead of their brothers. I think you’ll feel the same once you hear their stories.In the second half, we finally turn to King John to see if—maybe—there’s a redeeming quality or two hiding in there. Spoiler alert: there isn’t. If anything, you might end up disliking him even more by the end… just like I did. What an absolutely terrible man!--Check out Matt's books: https://mattlewisauthor.com/Gone Medieval: https://access.historyhit.com/gone-medieval--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matt Lewis

Edward Seymour is often remembered as the powerful Lord Protector who ruled during the minority of Edward VI—but what about the women behind him?In this episode, we’re turning the spotlight onto the wives of Edward Seymour—and trust me, their stories are anything but quiet.From his first marriage to Catherine Fillol, surrounded by whispers of scandal and betrayal, to his formidable second wife, Anne Stanhope, whose ambition and sharp presence at court earned her both power and enemies—these women played far more significant roles than history often gives them credit for.Was Catherine truly cast aside for infidelity… or was there something more strategic at play? And did Anne Stanhope help shape Seymour’s rise—and perhaps even his fall?This is a story of reputation, rumor, and ruthless court politics—where marriage was never just about love, and scandal could reshape dynasties.Let’s step beyond the Protector—and into the lives of the women who stood beside him.--Find Rebecca Batley's Books:On Pen & Sword website: https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/Rebecca-Batley/a/4665On Blackwells: https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/search/author/Rebecca%20BatleyOn Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Rebecca-Batley/author/B0BLZPHJLL?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1774888814&sr=8-1&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=fbe496f2-7200-4af3-a437-a221410a0fe2--Support the podcast over on Patreon and get commercial-free episode, early access, and exclusive content! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Rebecca Batley

In this episode, we spin off from our recent discussion on who was truly safe under Henry VII - and turn the spotlight on Thomas More. What if he had made a different choice? Instead of staying, what if he had fled into exile? Where would he have gone - and would he have taken his family with him? And perhaps most importantly… how would history remember him if he hadn’t died on the scaffold? We explore the possibilities, the risks, and the life Thomas More might have lived.--Show your support over on Patreon and get early access, exclusive content, and more! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Hosts:Rebecca LarsonAmy McElroy

As a king, having “an heir and a spare” is ideal—but Henry II of England may have taken things a bit too far with four ambitious sons: Henry the Young King, Richard I of England, Geoffrey II, Duke of Brittany, and John, King of England.Join Matthew Lewis and me for a lively and unfiltered conversation about the unbelievable—and often chaotic—stories of the sons of Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry II. Rivalries, rebellions, betrayals…this family drama has it all.It’s a wild ride (with a little swearing), so buckle up—Henry II certainly had to.--If you haven't already, check out Matt's podcast: Gone MedievalMatt's books: https://mattlewisauthor.com/--Want to support the podcast? Head over to Patreon and become a patron! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matt Lewis

What did people in medieval England really understand about mental health?In this episode, I’m joined by Michèle Schindler, author of Mental Health in Late Mediaeval England, to explore a subject that is often misunderstood—and oversimplified. From the famous collapse of Henry VI to lesser-known noble case studies, we move chapter by chapter through her research to uncover how mental illness was recorded, interpreted, and treated in the late Middle Ages.Were those suffering seen as “mad”… or simply unwell?Did medieval society respond with cruelty—or with compassion?And how did religion, law, and community shape the experience of mental illness?We also dive into the difficult topic of suicide, challenging long-held assumptions about how strictly Church doctrine was applied in practice.This conversation may change the way you think about the medieval mind—and the people who lived within it.--Michèle's books through Pen & SwordMichèle's books through AmberleyMichèle's books on Amazon US--Want to support the show, please head over to Patreon to see what benefits you get by being a patron! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Michèle Schindler

In this episode of Off the Record, Amy and I dive into the grim realities of execution under Henry VIII. From Edward Stafford, 3rd Duke of Buckingham, to Thomas More, Thomas Cromwell, Lord Dacre, and others, we explore the stories behind their downfalls. Ambition, loyalty, and suspicion collide in a series of fates that reveal just how dangerous life at the Tudor court could be—each ending as tragic as it is telling.--Hosts:Rebecca LarsonAmy McElroy

In this episode, we go beyond the fairytale image to uncover the real expectations placed on royal daughters. Princesses were far more than ornaments of the court - they were political assets, diplomatic bridges, and the key to securing dynastic futures. As daughters, they forged alliances. As wives, they strengthened kingdoms. As mothers, they ensured survival.But what happened when they stepped outside those expectations?From Joan, the illegitimate daughter of King John and wife of Llywelyn the Great, whose scandal rocked Anglo-Welsh relations… to Eleanor de Montfort, a king’s sister caught up in rebellion… to Juliana, Henry I’s daughter, who allegedly tried to kill her own father - this episode explores the moments when royal duty clashed with personal ambition, loyalty, and survival.Were these women simply reacting to impossible situations? Or were they exercising power in ways history has long misunderstood?Join us as we explore the duties of a princess - and the consequences of defying them.--Sharon's Books on Amazon--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sharon Bennett Connolluy

Today I’m joined again (Part Two) by historian and friend Sylvia Barbara Soberton to dig into some of the most famous - and widely repeated - myths about the six wives (Anne of Cleves, Katheryn Howard, and Kateryn Parr) of Henry VIII. From long-standing misconceptions to stories that have taken on a life of their own, we start unpacking what’s fact and what’s fiction.Miss Part One? Watch HERE!--Sylvia's current books on Amazon. Here is the Amazon US link: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B06XKCDHJX?ccs_id=5ef24eaf-a4aa-4191-9f01-fda8b7a51770Sylvia's SubstackSylvia's Mary Boleyn book through History Press - Preorder now!--There are still seats available for the SPECIAL EVENT next Sunday, March 22nd. You guys, this is gonna be an opportunity to hear from two of the leading Mary I scholars on what queenship looked like under Mary I as the first queen regnant, but also how Mary influenced Elizabeth's queenship, too. Please consider joining us! ⁠https://queenshipbeforeelizabeth.eventbrite.com--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sylvia Barbara Soberton

It's time for another historical WHAT IF, and today we are looking at Henry VII and what if he had remarried after the death of Elizabeth of York in 1503. This was an interesting topic to discuss, especially when we get to the end and talk about what would happen if he had children by his new wife. We ask YOU some questions at the end and we want to hear what you think!--There are still seats available for the SPECIAL EVENT next Sunday, March 22nd. You guys, this is gonna be an opportunity to hear from two of the leading Mary I scholars on what queenship looked like under Mary I as the first queen regnant, but also how Mary influenced Elizabeth's queenship, too. Please consider joining us! https://queenshipbeforeelizabeth.eventbrite.com--Hosts:Rebecca LarsonAmy McElroy

In this episode of Rebecca & Friends, I’m joined by historian and author Matt Lewis to explore one of the most powerful—and complicated—couples of the Middle Ages: Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine.Their marriage in 1152 created an empire that stretched from England to the Pyrenees, but ruling that empire was anything but simple. Together we dig into the personalities behind the power. Was Henry II really the tireless administrator history remembers—or was he sometimes a lazy king who left much of the heavy lifting to men like Thomas Becket? And what about Eleanor—was she truly the rebellious, difficult wife she’s often portrayed as, or might she have been a far better partner and political ally than later stories suggest?From political gambles and court culture to rebellion and reputation, we unpack the myths and realities behind a royal marriage that shaped medieval Europe.Join us as we take a closer look at the power, passion, and conflict that defined Henry and Eleanor’s extraordinary partnership.--Listen to Matt on Gone Medieval and Echoes of History podcasts!Check out Matt's books on Amazon.--We have an amazing upcoming SPECIAL EVENT happening on Sunday, March 22nd on Mary I that you will not want to miss - this event is led by two experts on Mary I: Dr. Johanna Strong and Dr. Peter Stiffell. Learn more HERE.--Want to support the show? Become a Patreon patron: https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matthew Lewis

Today I’m joined by historian and friend Sylvia Barbara Soberton to dig into some of the most famous - and widely repeated - myths about the six wives of Henry VIII. From long-standing misconceptions to stories that have taken on a life of their own, we start unpacking what’s fact and what’s fiction. But we had so much fun talking about the first three queens that we completely ran out of time… so this episode is Part One of a two-part conversation.--Find Sylvia's books on Amazon!--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sylvia Barbara Soberton

Welcome to another Sunday Funday of Off the Record with Amy & Rebecca!This time I take the lead (forgive me - I’m still getting used to that 😅) as we dive into a few Tudor and Elizabethan relationships that have always fascinated me. We talk about the secret love affair between Margaret Douglas and Lord Thomas Howard, the scandalous marriage of Bess Throckmorton and Walter Raleigh, and the explosive court drama surrounding Anne Vavasour and Edward de Vere.Then Amy does what Amy does best and ties a beautiful bow on the whole conversation by exploring one of the most complicated relationship dynamics of the era: Bess of Hardwick, George Talbot, and Mary, Queen of Scots.It’s messy, dramatic, and full of the kind of court intrigue we love to talk about - exactly what a Sunday Funday should be.--Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Amy McElroy

When people think of the English civil war known as the Anarchy, one name often stands at the center: Empress Matilda, the daughter of Henry I and the woman who almost became England’s first ruling queen. But who was Matilda really-and why did she never wear the crown?In this episode, Rebecca is joined by historian Matt Lewis to explore the fascinating and often misunderstood story of the woman sometimes called “The Queen Who Never Was.” After the death of her father, Matilda was his designated heir, yet the throne was seized by her cousin Stephen of Blois, plunging England into nearly two decades of conflict.Matt takes us through Matilda’s extraordinary life-from her time as Holy Roman Empress to her return to England to claim her inheritance. Together, Rebecca and Matt discuss Matilda’s personality and political style, the challenges she faced as a woman claiming power in the 12th century, and the moments when the crown seemed almost within her grasp.But this conversation also complicates the traditional narrative. Was Stephen simply a usurper-or was he a more sympathetic figure than history often allows? Matt explains why Stephen’s actions might make more sense when viewed through the lens of medieval politics and loyalty.It’s a story of ambition, legitimacy, personality, and power-and of a woman who came closer than anyone before her to ruling England in her own right.Join us as we explore Empress Matilda: The Queen Who Never Was.-Support the podcast over on Patreon! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynastyMatt's Website: https://mattlewisauthor.com/-Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matthew Lewis

It’s been a little while since our last installment in this series - and Dr. Porter begins by explaining the reason for the delay.In today’s episode, we turn to the husband of Mary II - a figure who plays a pivotal role not only in her life, but also in the story of Mary of Modena, whom we recently explored with Dr. Breeze Barrington. The connections between these royal lives make this discussion especially compelling.I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about a man I previously knew very little about: William of Orange, the future William III. I hope you enjoy Dr. Porter’s insights as much as I did.--Please consider supporting this podcast on Patreon! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Linda Porter

There are big “what-ifs” in history… and then there are the ones that quietly change everything.In this episode, we ask: What if Margaret Tudor had no surviving children with James IV?When James IV was killed at Flodden in 1513, Scotland did not just lose a king - it faced political instability, factional rivalry, and the urgent question of succession. But what if there had been no infant James V? No Tudor heir to carry the Stewart line forward?Who were the potential heirs to the Scottish throne at that moment? We look at the rival branches of the Stewart family, the strength of dynastic claims, and how Scotland might have chosen - or fought for - its next ruler.We also explore Margaret’s controversial second marriage to Archibald Douglas, which produced Margaret Douglas - a figure who would later play her own crucial role in the English succession. How would her position have shifted if there had been no surviving royal son from Margaret’s first marriage?And then there’s England.If Margaret’s line through James IV had failed, there would have been no Mary, Queen of Scots. No Stuart claim looming during Elizabeth I’s reign. No James VI poised to inherit England in 1603.So who would have succeeded Elizabeth? A Grey? A distant Plantagenet descendant? A foreign claimant? Would the Union of the Crowns ever have happened at all?This episode explores the fragile thread of dynastic survival — and how the absence of just one child could have reshaped Scotland, England, and the future of Britain itself.--Support the show on Patreon! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Hosted by: Rebecca Larson & Amy McElroy

Today would normally be a Dr. Emma & Me episode, but as many of you know from the last show and the notes here on Patreon, the series is on a brief hiatus.While Emma takes the time she needs (and we’re all sending her love), I’m so excited to introduce something new in its place: Rebecca & Friends.And I truly could not have picked a better person to launch this with than my good friend Matt Lewis.I’m going to be completely honest with you - this may be the most fun I’ve ever had recording an episode. If you watch the video, just look at my face throughout… you can actually see the moments where I’m completely blown away. The theory Matt brings to the table is one of those rare historical ideas that makes you stop mid-conversation and think, wait… what?!I won’t spoil it here. But if there’s even a chance it’s true, it’s the kind of thing that will absolutely blow your mind.I cannot wait to hear what you think.--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matt Lewis

In this episode, I’m joined by the wonderful Michèle Schindler to explore one of the most dangerous - and politically charged - experiences in medieval life: royal childbirth.For queens and noblewomen, pregnancy was never just personal. It was dynastic. The survival of kingdoms rested on their bodies. We dive into what childbirth actually looked like inside medieval chambers - the rituals, the midwives, the prayers, the relics, and the intense female networks that surrounded labor.What happened when things went wrong? How did repeated pregnancies shape a queen’s health - and her political value? And how did the birth (or death) of an heir change the course of history?From the expectations placed on royal women to the very real medical risks they faced, this conversation sheds light on the physical realities behind medieval monarchy - and the immense pressure carried by women whose primary duty was to secure the future of a realm.It’s intimate. It’s personal. And it might change the way you think about crowns and succession forever.--You can find Michele's books pretty much anywhere, but here is her page on Amazon - US.--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Michèle Schindler

There are so many “what ifs” in history - but this one may have reshaped the world. What if Mary I had given birth to a healthy son who survived? In this episode, we explore the ripple effects of a secure Catholic Tudor succession: What if Mary died in childbirth - who would have ruled as regent? What if she lived a long life and her son inherited the throne? How would England’s alliances with Philip II of Spain and Catholic Europe have evolved? And perhaps most provocatively - what would the future United States look like if Elizabeth I never reigned and her explorers never turned England into a Protestant Atlantic power? One surviving child might have changed the English Reformation, the rise of empire, and the very foundations of the modern world.--Don't forget to check out all of Amy McElroy's books where you buy books and go give her Substack a follow! --Hosts:Rebecca LarsonAmy McElroy

Dr. Emma & Me is pressing pause for now as Emma takes some time for herself. We appreciate your kindness and respect for her privacy during this season, and we’re hopeful we’ll be back together soon. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy the new series - Rebecca & Friends.Spain was not born in 1492.In this episode, Dr. Emma takes us back to the very beginning - to the Greeks who first traded along Iberia’s shores, the Romans who transformed it into Hispania, and the Visigoths who ruled after Rome’s fall. We explore how once-unified territories fractured into separate kingdoms, how centuries of conflict and coexistence shaped identity, and how the long Reconquista slowly redrew the map of Iberia.From ancient colony to emerging monarchy, this is the story of how Spain was made — and how Ferdinand and Isabel inherited a world centuries in the making.--Hosts:Rebecca LarsonDr. Emma Cahill Marron

In this episode, I’m joined by Professor Carol Rutter to explore the fascinating life of Henry Wotton - diplomat, poet, wit, and master of survival in the early modern world.Best remembered for his famous line describing an ambassador as “an honest man sent to lie abroad for the good of his country,” Wotton was far more than a clever epigram. Serving as ambassador to Venice under James I, he operated at the delicate intersection of diplomacy, intelligence, religion, and reputation - navigating courts where a misstep could cost everything.We discuss how Wotton crafted his persona, how friendship (including his connection to John Donne) shaped his career, and what his life reveals about how power actually worked beyond the throne.Was he underestimated? Opportunistic? Philosophical? Or simply practical in a dangerous age?Join us as we unpack the art of diplomacy — and the man who lived it.Lying Abroad: Henry Wotton and the Invention of Diplomacy ⁠https://www.amazon.com/-/he/Carol-Chillington-Rutter/dp/1526172062⁠--Time is running out to get your ticket for Dr. Emma's masterclass on identifying Holbein portriats (and sketches)! It's THIS Sunday! Learn from an actual art historian the techniques they learn regarding identificaton! https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1980200278338?aff=oddtdtcreator--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Prof. Carol Rutter

What if Henry VIII had died while campaigning in France? This episode started with what felt like an obvious answer—but quickly turned into a far more complicated and fascinating conversation about succession. We explore the unexpected paths history could have taken, and trust us: this one went places we didn’t anticipate.--There's still time to sign up for the Identifying Holbein Portraits masterclass with Dr. Emma - seminar one begins February 22nd and will be recorded for later viewing as well. Learn more here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1980200278338?aff=oddtdtcreator--Hosts:Rebecca LarsonAmy McElroy

In this episode of Dr. Emma & Me, we explore one of history’s most iconic mother - daughter pairings: Anne Boleyn and her daughter, Elizabeth I. Elizabeth was still a toddler when her mother was executed, yet Anne’s influence lingered in powerful and surprising ways. From shared experiences of danger, scrutiny, and survival to the shaping of identity under a Tudor court that rarely forgave, we trace the striking parallels that link mother and daughter across a lifetime they never truly shared.--Are you fascinated by Holbein? How about Tudor art and understanding the elements that go into identifying a sitter in a portrait? If you're intrigued by this please consider joining the first masterclass led by art historian Dr. Emma on identifying portraits. Tickets and information can be found here: https://holbeinmasterclassONE.eventbrite.com--Credits:Hosts: Rebecca Larson Dr. Emma Cahill Marron

In this episode, we step into the glittering yet deeply unstable world of the Restoration court through the life of Mary of Modena - a woman whose destiny could not have been further from her original hopes.Mary had envisioned a quiet life devoted to the Church. Instead, she was thrust onto the European stage and into a political marriage with James II, brother and heir to Charles II. As a young foreign bride in a volatile, anti-Catholic England, Mary was forced to adapt quickly - learning how to survive, and even exert influence, in a court defined by shifting loyalties, scandal, and uncertainty.Joined by historian and author Breeze Barrington, who holds a PhD in the literary and artistic cultures of the early Stuart court, we explore how Mary navigated this treacherous environment with remarkable emotional intelligence and resilience. Together, we discuss Mary’s transformation from reluctant bride to queen, her role as stepmother to Mary II and Anne, and what her story reveals about women’s power, adaptation, and endurance at one of the most dramatic courts in English history.This is not just the story of a Catholic queen - but of a woman learning how to survive, and lead, in a world she never chose.--The Graces: The Extraordinary Untold Lives of Women at the Restoration CourtBlackwells: https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/The-Graces-by-Breeze-Barrington/9781526663788--Have you ever wanted to look at a portrait and see all the symbolism - both hidden and obvious? Consider taking Dr. Emma's masterclass on Holbein identification! EARLY-BIRD pricing now available. Get your ticket here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1980200278338?aff=oddtdtcreator--Credits:Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Breeze Barrington

In the autumn of 1562, England held its breath. Queen Elizabeth I lay gravely ill with smallpox, her life uncertain, her kingdom unprepared for what might come next.But what if she hadn’t survived?In this episode, we explore one of the most chilling “what ifs” in English history. With no named heir, a fragile religious settlement, and rival claims waiting in the wings, Elizabeth’s death could have plunged England into chaos. Who would have taken the throne? Would Mary, Queen of Scots have prevailed - or would the Grey sisters have been revived as contenders? Who were some of the other contenders?This isn’t just speculation - it’s a deep dive into succession law, political reality, and the very real anxieties of a nation on the brink.History as it nearly was… and how close England came to a very different fate.--Have you always wanted to get more into art history but don't think you have the skills or tools to do so? Well, art historian Dr. Emma Cahill Marron is offering a masterclass on identifying Holbein portraits using the skills she learned as an art historian. Join us on February 22nd! EARLY BIRD PRICING AVAILABLE NOW!Get your ticket here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1980200278338?aff=oddtdtcreator--Hosts:Rebecca LarsonAmy McElroy

Two queens. Two foreign brides. Two marriages to Henry VIII—yet wildly different legacies.In this episode of Parallel Lives, Dr. Emma and I place Anna of Cleves and Katherine of Aragon side by side to explore what it really meant to arrive in England as a teenage bride, shaped by continental courts, dynastic expectations, and political pressure far beyond their control.We look at their early lives before England, how each woman understood queenship, faith, duty, and survival - and how their personal strengths played out very differently once married to the same king. From Katherine’s long struggle as queen and defender of her marriage (and daughter Mary) to Anna’s remarkable ability to adapt, negotiate, and ultimately thrive after divorce, this is a conversation about power, perception, and female resilience.Who had the better outcome? Who exercised more agency? And how much of what we think we know about these women is shaped by later myth rather than lived reality?Join us as we rethink two of Henry VIII’s most fascinating queens - beyond portraits, politics, and caricature.--DON'T FORGET TO GET SIGNED UP FOR DR. EMMA'S MASTERCLASS ON IDENTIFYING HOLBEIN SKETCHES/PORTRAITS ON FEBRUARY 22ND! --Hosts:Rebecca LarsonDr. Emma Cahill Marron

Richard Rich, 1st Baron Rich, rose from relatively modest beginnings to become one of the most powerful - and controversial - figures of the Tudor age. A skilled lawyer and political operator, Rich prospered under Henry VIII and Edward VI, playing a key role in the Dissolution of the Monasteries and benefiting enormously from the redistribution of church lands. He is perhaps best remembered for his involvement in the prosecutions of Sir Thomas More and Anne Boleyn, acts that cemented his dark reputation. In this episode, we explore how Rich navigated the brutal world of Tudor politics - and why his name still provokes debate centuries later.Sarah's article on Rich: https://thetudortravelguide.com/richard-rich-1st-baron-rich/Leez Priory: https://thetudortravelguide.com/leez-priory/Simply Tudor Tours: https://simplytudortours.com/--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sarah Morris

We know him best as the father of Edward IV and Richard III, and as the husband of Cecily Neville. But in October 1460, everything changed. The Act of Accord named Richard, Duke of York, heir to the throne of Henry VI. Just two months later, he was dead - killed at the Battle of Wakefield.In this episode, Amy and I step into the counterfactual and ask: what if Richard had survived? What would England have looked like if the Duke of York had lived to become king?--Rebecca's Substack: https://rebeccalarson.substack.com/Amy's Substack: https://amymcelroy.substack.com/--Hosts:Rebecca LarsonAmy McElroy

One ruled one of the most powerful empires of the seventeenth century. The other shaped how that power would be seen - then and now.In this episode of Parallel Lives, we explore the intertwined lives of Philip IV of Spain and Diego Velázquez, king and court painter, patron and artist, subject and storyteller. Philip’s reign was marked by political strain, military decline, and a deep personal devotion to art. Velázquez, meanwhile, rose from modest beginnings to become not only the king’s favored painter but a trusted presence within the royal household itself.Together, they created one of the most fascinating collaborations in European history - one where art became a tool of authority, intimacy, and legacy. From court portraiture to Las Meninas, we examine how Velázquez crafted Philip’s image, how Philip shaped Velázquez’s career, and how their relationship reveals the fragile balance between power, perception, and truth.This is not just a story of a king and an artist—but of how history is framed, staged, and remembered.--Join Dr. Emma's Holbein Identification Masterclass on February 22nd! https://holbeinmasterclassONE.eventbrite.com--Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma Luisa Cahill Marrón

Why are we still so obsessed with the Tudors after five centuries?In this week’s Tuesday Historian Chat, I’m joined by historian and author Elizabeth Goff to explore the women, myths, and memories that continue to define Tudor history. From Penelope Devereux and Katherine Parr to the Grey sisters, we talk about which Tudor women stand out - and which have had their reputations unfairly flattened by history.We dig into the lack of confirmed images for Anne Boleyn and Katherine Howard, question whether the Tudors truly deserve their reputation for brutality, and ask who the real “Bloody” monarch actually was. The conversation turns to Elizabeth I’s carefully constructed legacy - including her relationship with clothing, image, and power - and the haunting afterlife of her gowns under James I.We also revisit some of the most devastating decisions of the age: the executions of Mary, Queen of Scots and Lady Jane Grey, the human cost of dynastic power, and what might have happened had Mary Stuart lived. Along the way, we confront Tudor execution practices, public violence, and the moment Elizabeth was told the truth about her mother’s death.A thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation about power, memory, and the women who lived - and died - in the shadow of the Tudor crown.--Bloody, Brilliant Tudors: 100 Tales of Gowns, Gossip, and Gory EndsElizabeth Goff on Instagram--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Elizabeth Goff

What if Elizabeth I had never signed Mary, Queen of Scots’ death warrant? On this episode of Off the Record, we dive into the political chaos, succession drama, and international consequences of keeping England’s most dangerous prisoner alive—and whether mercy would have been far more dangerous than execution.--Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Amy McElroy

In this episode of Parallel Tinders, we’re putting England’s most famous sisters side-by-side -Mary I and Elizabeth I - to explore how two women raised in the same dynasty could become such wildly different queens. From Mary’s deep devotion and desire for a traditional marriage, to Elizabeth’s sharp independence and preference for loyal companionship over a crown-sharing husband, we break down their personalities, priorities, and what they really wanted from the people around them.And of course, we’ll dive into the fun part: the men who could have wed an English queen - the serious contenders, the political plays, and the match-making that could have changed Tudor history entirely.--Support the show over on Patreon and receive ad-free episodes, early access, and exclusive content!

In this episode, I’m joined by historian Annie Whitehead to explore the women of the Anglo-Saxon world and the many ways they shaped early medieval England.We talk about education, influence, queenship, and legacy — and how women navigated power in a world that didn’t always preserve their voices. We also discuss how history has remembered these women: who becomes celebrated, who is criticized, and who is too often left out of the story altogether.Annie's book list on her website: https://anniewhiteheadauthor.co.uk/about-me--Previous episodes:Episode from 2021 on AethelflaedEpisode from Jan 2025: Murder in Anglo-Saxon England--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Annie Whitehead

What if Lady Jane Grey had outwitted Mary Tudor and stayed Queen of England?In this Off the Record episode, we follow the most fascinating “what if” in Tudor history: a world where Jane’s reign doesn’t end after nine days - but becomes the start of something far bigger (and far more dangerous). Together we unpack what would have needed to change for Jane to keep the crown, why Mary’s victory depended as much on politics as it did legitimacy, and how quickly England could have transformed under a fiercely Protestant queen.We also dig into one of the most important questions behind Jane’s claim: Edward VI’s Devise for the Succession. Was Parliament even in session when Edward began drafting it - and did he actually have time to legalize it before his death? The answer might surprise you… and it changes how we understand just how fragile Jane’s crown truly was.A coup, a crisis of legitimacy, and a teenage queen at the center of a kingdom on the edge - this is Tudor alternate history at its most dramatic.--Medieval True Crime with Matt Lewis: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1978296660566?aff=oddtdtcreator. It's all online, and you have 60 days to watch at your own pace!JOIN THE UPCOMING COURSE - 1st class posted January 26th.--Check out Rebecca's Substack! Original research revealed, and articles you won't find anywhere else. https://rebeccalarson.substack.com/Check out Amy's Substack at: https://substack.com/@amymcelroy--Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Amy McElroy

In this episode of Parallel Lives, Dr. Emma and Rebecca explore the lives of two remarkable women who turned learning into influence.Christine de Pizan became one of Europe’s first professional female writers, using her words to challenge the misogyny of her age and defend women’s intelligence. Meanwhile in Spain, Beatriz Galindo—known as La Latina—rose as a celebrated humanist at the court of Queen Isabella I, proving that education could be power.Along the way, we dive into a fascinating portrait mystery—one that may be Elizabeth I rather than the sitter we’ve long been told it could be—and we also revisit a major Tudor assumption: was Kateryn Parr truly the first published Tudor queen consort… or is that title more complicated than we think?CHECK OUT OUR MERCH! https://tudors-dynasty-podcast-merch.creator-spring.com/listing/historical-nicknames-teeJOIN THE UPCOMING COURSE - Medieval True Crime with Matt Lewis: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1978296660566?aff=oddtdtcreator. It's all online, and you havve 60 days to watch at your own pace! --Hosted by: Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma Cahill Marron