Tudors Dynasty & Beyond

Epizody

• Henry VI: From Crisis to Civil War 02.07.2026 1h 15min

  Matt Lewis returns to continue our journey through the reign of Henry VI - and things are about to fall apart.Picking up in 1450, we explore the events that plunged England into the Wars of the Roses. Was Richard, Duke of York, really determined to take the throne, or has history misunderstood his intentions? Time and again, York had opportunities to overthrow Henry VI, yet repeatedly stopped short. So why did the kingdom descend into civil war anyway?We discuss Henry's catastrophic political indecision, his unwavering trust in Edmund Beaufort, Duke of Somerset, his mental collapse in 1453, the First Battle of St Albans, the ill-fated Love Day, the dramatic Act of Accord, and the death of Richard of York at Wakefield. Along the way, we examine the choices - and failures - that shaped one of the most turbulent periods in English history.We also tackle one of the biggest questions surrounding Henry VI: what really happened in the Tower of London in May 1471? Was the deposed king murdered, or did he simply succumb to grief and illness after the destruction of his Lancastrian cause?Join us as we conclude the story of Henry VI - a king whose inability to choose a side may have changed the course of English history forever.--Support the podcast on Patreon and get COMMERCIAL-FREE episodes, EARLY ACCESS, and EXCLUSIVE content! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matt Lewis
• Margaret Beaufort: Lancastrian Loyalist or Ruthless Opportunist? 30.06.2026 1h 9min

  The wonderful Dr. Michael Jones returns to the podcast to take a fresh look at the remarkable life of Margaret Beaufort. Together, we explore how her turbulent childhood shaped the woman she would become - from growing up without ever knowing her father to the lasting impact his early death had on her life. We also dive into her relationship with her mother, and of course, we couldn't talk about Margaret without discussing her famous bond with her son, the future Henry VII.Along the way, Mike challenged a few assumptions I had about Margaret, and there were more than a couple of moments that genuinely surprised me. I have a feeling you'll be just as fascinated by what he has to say.*I was unable to add photos of the church and home in Samford Peverell, but I'll post them to social media AFTER the episode has been published.--Support the podcast on Patreon and receive COMMERCIAL-FREE episodes, EARLY ACCESS, and EXCLUSIVE content! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Michael K. Jones
• Traveling Back in Time to Witness History, Pt. 2 28.06.2026 53min

  Today, we decided to return to the same topic as last week and we discuss moments in history that we would like to travel back to and experience. There are a few times things got a bit goofy during this one, so if you're opposed to laughter - skip this one.What times would you like to travel back to? What do you think of OUR choices?--Co-Hosts:Rebecca LarsonAmy McElroy
• Henry VI: The Making of a Crisis 25.06.2026 1h 17min

  Henry VI inherited the throne as an infant and would become one of England's most controversial kings. In this episode, Matt Lewis joins me to explore the first half of Henry's reign, from the triumphs inherited from Henry V to the mounting crises that would eventually tear the kingdom apart.Together, we discuss Henry's upbringing, his deeply pious personality, the influence of powerful nobles, the loss of England's French territories, the rise of factional politics at court, and the growing unrest that culminated in Jack Cade's Rebellion in 1450.Was Henry VI simply a victim of circumstances beyond his control, or did his own shortcomings help create the conditions for disaster? Join us as we trace the early reign of the king who would preside over the end of England's French empire and the beginning of one of the most turbulent periods in English history.--Host:Rebecca LarsonGuest:Matt Lewis
• Women's Networks in Medieval England, Pt. 2 23.06.2026 1h 6min

  Dr. Lacey Bonar Hull returns for part two of our conversation on women's networks during the Wars of the Roses. This time, we turn our attention to two of the most influential women of the fifteenth century: Elizabeth Woodville and Margaret Beaufort.How did these women navigate one of the most turbulent periods in English history? What role did family connections, female alliances, and political survival play in shaping the future of the English crown?We explore Elizabeth Woodville's relationship with her mother, Jaquetta of Luxembourg, and how that bond may have helped prepare her to survive repeated political upheavals. We also examine Margaret Beaufort's often-misunderstood ambitions, separating later Tudor mythology from what the contemporary evidence actually tells us.Along the way, we discuss the mysterious events of 1483, including a possible plot to rescue the Princes in the Tower, the challenges of interpreting Richard III's actions, and the communication networks that may have connected Elizabeth Woodville and Margaret Beaufort long before their famous alliance.Most importantly, we look at how these two women ultimately worked together to secure the marriage of Henry Tudor and Elizabeth of York—an alliance that helped bring the Wars of the Roses to an end and laid the foundations for the Tudor dynasty.Join us as we separate fact from fiction, challenge long-held assumptions, and uncover the remarkable political agency of women whose influence has too often been overlooked by history.--Lacey's Substack: https://thehistoriansdesk.substack.com/Support the podcast on Patreon and get commercial-free episodes, early access, and exclusive content! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Lacey Bonar Hull
• Traveling Back in Time to Witness History 21.06.2026 1h 9min

  Ever wished you could step into a time machine and witness history with your own eyes? In this special episode, Amy and Rebecca leave the archives behind and dive into the historical moments they would most love to experience firsthand.From royal celebrations and mysterious disappearances to secret weddings, political intrigue, and pivotal turning points, we reveal our dream destinations in the past - and why these events continue to fascinate us. Along the way, the conversation takes a few unexpected (and hilarious) detours, proving that even historians can't resist having a little fun.So, if you've ever wondered what it would be like to stand in the crowd at a Tudor celebration, uncover one of history's greatest mysteries, or simply observe a world long gone, this episode is for you.And we want to hear from you: If you could travel back in time, where - and when - would you go?--Support the podcast on Patreon and receive COMMERCIAL-FREE episode, EARLY ACCESS, and EXCLUSIVE CONTENT: https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Join other history enthusiasts for the upcoming EVENT on imagery of Mary Boleyn with Sylvia Barbara Soberton. Learn more here: https://maryboleyn.eventbrite.com--Co-Hosts:Rebecca LarsonAmy McElroy
• Edmund Beaufort: The Man History Got Wrong 18.06.2026 1h 14min

  *Matt has the week off, so I invited Mike back to discuss someone who may or may not come up in my next conversation with Matt on Henry VI.For generations, Edmund Beaufort, Duke of Somerset, has been remembered as one of the defeated leaders of the Lancastrian cause at the Battle of Tewkesbury. But does history tell the whole story?In this episode, I welcome back historian Dr. Michael Jones to take a fresh look at one of the most controversial figures of the Wars of the Roses. Together, we trace Beaufort's remarkable journey from the embattled Beaufort family, through years of exile in Burgundy, to his final stand in 1471.Drawing on evidence from European archives, Dr. Jones argues that Beaufort was far more than a doomed Lancastrian commander. He was a respected military leader, a close companion of Charles the Bold, and a man whose unwavering loyalty and commitment to the chivalric code set him apart in an age of shifting allegiances and political betrayals.Was Edmund Beaufort truly the reckless commander portrayed by later Yorkist accounts? Or has one of Lancaster's most capable and honorable champions been unfairly judged by history?Join us as we explore loyalty, exile, warfare, and the dramatic final chapter of the Beaufort family's role in the Wars of the Roses."The Beauforts get a hard deal." Dr. Michael Jones makes the case for why it's time to take another look.--Mike's Thesis/Dissertation he mentioned: https://research-information.bris.ac.uk/ws/portalfiles/portal/34504530/507865.pdfInformation on the Tewkesbury Festival he will be speaking at on 11 July at 7:30pm: https://www.johnmooremuseum.org/events/tewkesbury-1471-a-vindication-of-edmund-beaufort-duke-of-somerset/--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Michael K. Jones
• The House of Boleyn: History Meets Fiction 16.06.2026 48min

  Lately, I've been on a historic fiction kick. I read so much non-fiction that it's an absolute pleasure when I can just sit back and let a story tells itself without taking notes.Today, I welcome back the absolutely wonderful Tracy Borman to chat about her new novel The House of Boleyn - which I cannot recommend enough. I am a huge fan of Tracy's fiction (as you'll discover from our chat).Get your copy of The House of Boleyn now - you can order through Blackwell's from the US and get free shipping and you won't have to wait until August either! Order HEREOrder the Frances Gorge's series here:The King's Witch (Book One)The Devil's Slave (Book Two)The Fallen Angel (Book Three)--Support the podcast on Patreon and receive commercial-free episodes, early access, and exclusive content! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Prof. Dr. Tracy Borman, OBE
• Educating the Tudors: The Blind Poet, the French Linguist, and the Loyal Martyr 14.06.2026 1h 4min

  When we think of Tudor education, names like Erasmus and Roger Ascham often come to mind. But they weren't the only men shaping the minds of England's future kings, queens, and nobles.In this episode, we continue our exploration of Tudor tutors by turning our attention to three fascinating figures: Bernard André, the blind poet and historian who served Henry VII; Giles Duwes, the French linguist who helped educate generations of Tudor royals; and Richard Fetherston, a respected scholar whose loyalty to Catherine of Aragon ultimately led him to the executioner's block.Join me as we uncover the lives, careers, and lasting legacies of these remarkable educators and discover how their influence extended far beyond the classroom.--Andre's stuff is in Latin: Historia regis Henrici Septimi, a Bernardo Andrea tholosate conscripta : necnon alia quædam ad eundem regem spectantia : Gairdner, James, 1828-1912 : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive - https://archive.org/details/historiaregishen00gair/page/90/mode/2upAlternatively an English translation can be found here: https://philological.cal.bham.ac.uk/andreas/1e.htmlAnd here is a link to Duwes book:An introductorie for to lerne... : Duwes, Giles : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive - https://archive.org/details/bim_early-english-books-1475-1640_an-introductorie-for-to-_duwes-giles/page/n5/mode/2up--Amy's books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BBSK2SDQ?ccs_id=109e65de-e6dc-4f7e-ac20-4f5f9b2dac8f--Host: Rebecca LarsonCo-Host/Guest: Amy McElroy
• Henry V: England's Last Warrior King 11.06.2026 1h 13min

  Matt Lewis is back and I have a little fun with him at the beginning of the episode.This time, Matt teaches us all about Henry V and his ongoing quest for power and greatness. I could not help but mention how Henry VIII (nearly a century later) tries to emulate his idol, but fails miserably.When people think of Henry V, they usually think of Agincourt. But there was far more to this king than one famous battlefield victory.Was Henry V truly England's last warrior king? How much of his reputation comes from his achievements, and how much from centuries of mythmaking? And what might have happened if he had lived beyond the age of 35?Join us as we take a closer look at one of England's most celebrated medieval monarchs and the legacy he left behind.--Support the podcast on Patreon and get commercial-free episodes, early access, and exclusive content! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matt Lewis
• The Life and the Career of the Black Prince 09.06.2026 1h 2min

  The Black Prince is one of the most famous figures of the Middle Ages - but how much do we really know about the man behind the legend?In this episode, I'm joined by historian Dr. Michael Jones to explore the life and career of Edward of Woodstock, better known as the Black Prince. From his remarkable military successes at Crécy and Poitiers to his role in the Hundred Years' War, we follow his rise as England's most celebrated warrior. But this conversation goes beyond the battlefield.Together, we examine his upbringing as the eldest son of King Edward III, his relationship with his mother, and the challenges that marked the final years of his life. We also discuss how the Black Prince's untimely death changed the course of English history and helped shape the troubled reign of his son, Richard II.Was he truly the perfect medieval prince, or has history polished his reputation? Join us as we separate the man from the myth.Check out his book available everywhere - The Black Prince: England's Greatest Medieval WarriorAmazon US Link: https://a.co/d/0f5g738s--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Michael Jones
• John Skelton: Poet, Tutor, and Troublemaker 07.06.2026 1h

  John Skelton is one of the most fascinating figures of the Tudor age - and somehow, one of the most overlooked. Poet, scholar, tutor to the future Henry VIII, and professional troublemaker, Skelton spent his life using words to entertain, provoke, and occasionally land himself in serious trouble.In this episode, Amy McElroy joins me to explore the life and career of a man who was praised by scholars, admired by royalty, and feared by those who found themselves on the receiving end of his sharp tongue. We look at Skelton's role in the education of Prince Henry, his unique style of poetry, his clashes with powerful churchmen, and how he managed to survive in the turbulent world of Tudor politics.Was John Skelton a loyal servant of the Crown, a fearless critic, or simply someone who couldn't resist stirring the pot? Join us as we uncover the story of one of Tudor England's most colorful characters.Here is the link for the book.Commentu[m] familiare in Ciceronis Officia / cum Petri Marsi exactissima explanatione, ab ipso recognita et diligenter annotata ; cumq[ue] de Amicitia, Senectute, [et] Paradoxis eiusdem Ciceronis non penitendis commentarijs et omnium tum rerum, tum, verborum, indice | Digital CollectionsThere is another link with a little more info about the book:Prince Henry’s “boke” | Folger Shakespeare LibraryEXTRA NOTE FROM AMY:Although Skelton was not married there is historical lore that he lived with a woman who in some records has been labelled as a secret wife or a concubine, there is no record of his marriage. The lore also references Skelton taking a child into a church which led to allegations the child was his but there is no substantive evidence to confirm this.--Host: Rebecca LarsonCo-Host/Guest: Amy McElroy
• The Daughters of King Stephen 04.06.2026 43min

  Finally, Matt Lewis took the hint and didn't show up today! Just kidding - he was busy this week but will be back next week to chat about Henry V with me.Today, my medieval fill-in guest is Sharon Bennett Connolly who is here to discuss the daughters of King Stephen with me... I hope you enjoy!Episode on Gunhild and Gytha:https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/rebecca-larson/episodes/The-Runaway-Nun--the-Exiled-Princess-e3hj9s8/a-acj1hbsEpisode on the Warennes: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/rebecca-larson/episodes/Conquest--Kidnapping--and-Noble-Power-e3cmrff/a-accikoj⁠ORDER SHARON'S BOOK - PRINCESSES OF THE EARLY MIDDLE AGES: https://www.amazon.com/Princesses-Early-Middle-Ages-Daughters/dp/1399091026-Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sharon Bennett Connolly
• Women's Networks in Medieval England 02.06.2026 55min

  What happens when we stop looking at medieval queens as isolated figures and start looking at the women around them?In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Lacey Bonar Hull to explore the powerful networks of women that shaped politics, influence, and survival in fifteenth-century England. Our conversation focuses on three remarkable women: Jacquetta of Luxembourg, Margaret of Anjou, and Cecily Neville. Together, we examine how these women built alliances, supported one another, navigated conflict, and exercised power in a world dominated by men.Join us for a fascinating look at the web of relationships that connected some of the most influential women of medieval England.--Support the podcast on Patreon and get commercial-free episodes, early access, and exclusive content! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Lacey Bonar Hull
• John Cheke: Scholar of Kings, Prisoner of Queens 31.05.2026 45min

  John Cheke is often remembered as one of the greatest scholars of Tudor England, but his story is about far more than books and learning.In this episode, I'm joined by Amy McElroy as both co-host and guest as we explore the remarkable life of Sir John Cheke. From his rise as a brilliant humanist scholar and the first Regius Professor of Greek at Cambridge, to his role as tutor to the future Edward VI, Cheke found himself at the very heart of Tudor power.But the Tudor court could be a dangerous place. We follow Cheke's journey from trusted advisor and royal servant to exile, imprisonment, and ultimately the Tower of London. Along the way, we discuss his influence on education, religion, and politics, as well as his support for Lady Jane Grey and the devastating consequences that followed.How did one of the most respected minds of the Tudor age become a prisoner of the crown? Join us as we uncover the fascinating rise and fall of Sir John Cheke.--Support the podcast on Patreon and get commercial-free episodes, early access, and exclusive content! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest/Host: Amy McElroy
• Henry IV: The Vanilla Milkshake of Kings 28.05.2026 1h 5min

  Well… here it is. What did you think about the show open this week? Let me know in the comments!This week, Matt Lewis and I turn our attention to Henry IV — and there is a lot to unpack. We discuss the death of Richard II, the conspiracy theories that claimed he survived, the visit of an emperor to England, the kidnapping of the Scottish king, and so much more!As always, the conversation takes plenty of unexpected turns along the way.And at the very end, I ask Matt to rank Henry IV on a scale of 1–10. You’ll want to stick around to hear his answer.--Support the podcast on Patreon and get commercial-free episodes, early access, and exclusive content! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matt Lewis
• The Queen's Husband: Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha 26.05.2026 1h 15min

  In this second to last episode of our The Queen’s Husband series, I’m joined once again by the wonderful Dr. Linda Porter as we turn our attention to one of the most famous royal consorts in history - Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha.So much of Prince Albert’s reputation has been shaped by the image of the devoted husband standing faithfully beside Queen Victoria, but who was he really? Linda explores Albert’s early life in Germany, his marriage to Victoria, and the enormous influence he had on the monarchy, politics, culture, and family life in nineteenth-century Britain.From royal romance to political partnership, this episode takes a closer look at the man behind the title of “Prince Consort.”--Support the podcast on Patreon and get commercial-free episodes, early access, and exclusive content! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Linda Porter
• Historical TV Series: Part Three 24.05.2026 1h 3min

  Yeah, you read that right, we are on Part Three (and the last for now) on historical TV series. This episode we look at one of my favorites - House of the Dragon, and one of Amy's favorites - Game of Thrones. If you haven't watched either consider this your spoiler alert. If you watched one episode and turned it off...consider this my pitch to convince you to watch!If you don't think dragons are cool (I'm not sure why you wouldn't), you might after you hear me gush about them. I cannot wait for season three of House of the Dragon which is out in June.Enjoy, and I hope to hear your feedback and answer to our questions for you!--Support the show on Patreon and get commercial-free episode, early access, and much more!! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Hosts:Rebecca LarsonAmy McElroy
• Richard II: The King with a God Complex 21.05.2026 1h 10min

  Richard II’s story is honestly one of the wildest royal rises and falls in English history, and in this episode I’m joined once again by Matt Lewis to untangle the life of the king who seemed determined to make everyone around him uncomfortable.We look at Richard becoming king as a child after the death of his grandfather, Edward III, and how surviving the Peasants' Revolt at just fourteen years old may have completely shaped the way he viewed kingship, rebellion, and power for the rest of his life.Richard wasn’t your typical medieval warrior king. He loved ceremony, art, and royal pageantry, and seemed to believe that kings should be treated as something almost sacred. The problem? England’s nobles very much disagreed. Matt and I talk about Richard’s favorites, his growing paranoia, revenge against the nobles who humiliated him, and how things spiraled so badly that he eventually lost his crown to his own cousin, Henry IV of England.Was Richard II a tyrant? A misunderstood visionary? A traumatized child king who never learned to trust anyone? Honestly…by the end of this conversation, I’m still not entirely sure what to think about him. Other than I don't like him.Link to the Wilton Diptych: https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/paintings/english-or-french-the-wilton-diptych--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matt Lewis
• Philippa Gregory on Mary Boleyn, Tudor Women & Revisiting History 19.05.2026 54min

  She has sold over 30 million copies of her books worldwide, and she is likely the most recognizable name in historical fiction. Today, I’m sharing the interview I recorded with not only Philippa Gregory, but also Sylvia Barbara Soberton - all thanks to History Press for arranging this for us.Together, Sylvia and Philippa explore the story of Mary Boleyn and discuss how each of them researched and wrote about her. We also look at Philippa’s latest Tudor novel, The Boleyn Traitor, and why she wanted the opportunity to revisit Jane Boleyn and give her a fairer portrayal.--Support the podcast on Patreon and you'll get commercial-free episodes, early access, and more! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuests: Philippa Gregory & Sylvia Barbara Soberton