Tudors Dynasty

In 1566, Agnes Waterhouse became one of the first woman executed for witchcraft in England. Accused of killing her neighbor with the help of a talking cat named Sathan, her trial marked the beginning of a dark chapter in English history. In this episode, we explore the haunting story of Agnes, the rise of witchcraft laws under Elizabeth I, and how fear, superstition, and gender shaped one of the era’s most terrifying injustices.As always, commercial-free on Patreon!--Narrated by: Rebecca LarsonResearched and Written by: Emily Airey

Dr. Peter Stiffell joins guest host Dr. Emma for a fascinating discussion on the work of Anthonis Mor at the court of Queen Mary I. Together, they explore the rich symbolism in his portraits and compare them to other images produced in his workshop.--Are you looking for a commercial-free experience? Head over to my Patreon page!Love to Read? Check out my website which is full of articles to read! https://tudorsdynasty.com--Guest Host: Dr. Emma Cahill MarronGuest: Dr. Peter Stiffell

Today, I’m joined by the wonderful Alison Weir to dive into the fascinating life of Thomas Wolsey. If you’ve ever thought Wolsey was boring, this episode will change your mind! Alison and I explore the twists and turns of his life, her research process, and share a lively conversation about all things Tudor.Find The Cardinal on Amazon--Are you looking for a commercial-free experience? Head over to my Patreon!--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Alison Weir

Separated by centuries but united by boldness, Empress Theodora and Lola Montez shattered societal expectations to transform scandal into power. In this episode, we explore how each woman defied the odds, using wit, ambition, and sheer will to rise above the roles society tried to force upon them. Their stories remind us that sometimes, the most unexpected paths lead to the greatest influence.--This episode is available, commercial-free, over on Patreon!--Narrated by: Rebecca LarsonResearched & Written by: Emily Airey

Today, I’m joined by trained midwife and author Brigitte Barnard for a fascinating deep dive into pregnancy and childbirth in Tudor England. We’ll explore the realities faced by women of the time—and you won’t want to miss Brigitte’s theory on what really caused Jane Seymour’s death. Spoiler: it’s not childbed fever!Find book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Tudor-Queens-Midwife-Book/dp/B0DS6Y2W84--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Brigitte Barnard

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_id=8da24389-f1e0-4cf5-85a5-1160c3b3fec5*If you prefer a commerical-free experience, head over to my Patreon page: https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sharon Bennett Connolly

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 enigmatic world of John Dee.--Interested in attending Tudorcon in person or online? Click HERE for more information!Are you looking for a commercial-free experience or early access? Head over to Patreon!--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Tiffany Brown

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. EmmaGuest: Dr. Jemma Field

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 Cahill MarronResearched by: Emily Airey

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 King on Amazon--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Paula Lofting

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 Kateryn Parr, and so much more!--If you prefer a commercial-free experience please head over to my Patreon account: https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Johanna Strong

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 LarsonGuest: 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 on Amazon US--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Elizabeth Norton

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 many eras of history! WEBSITE--Narrated by: Rebecca LarsonResearched by: Emily Airey

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 booksWebsite: https://www.leandadelisle.com/about/--Looking for a commercial-free experience? Head over to Patreon!--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Leanda de Lisle

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 one of the most scandalous rumors of all—did Edward Seymour’s first wife really have an affair with his father? Tune in as I answer listener questions and uncover the truth behind the Seymours’ rise, power, and intrigue in Tudor England!--Do you prefer a commercial-free experience? Head over to Patreon!Read about the tragic love story between Thomas Seymour and Kateryn Parr HERE--Host: Rebecca Larson

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 LarsonResearched 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 fit into the wider history of Tudor rebellions and plots. Tune in for a fascinating discussion on the threats Elizabeth faced and how all the Tudors navigated an era of intrigue and resistance!Elizabethan Rebellions by Helene Harrisonhttps://tudorblogger.com--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Helene Harrison

**Join us for a LIVE chat on Sunday, March 23rd (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 out.English Heritage article on the portrait--Sylvia's BookMelanie's Website--Credits:Host: Rebecca LarsonGuests: Melanie V. Taylor & Sylvia Barbara Soberton

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. Though their styles and lives differed, both women carved paths in a male-dominated field, leaving behind legacies that continue to inspire.Artemisia Gentileschi Élisabeth Vigée-Lebrun--Looking to support the show? PATREONRead about the Tudors and beyond: https://tudorsdynasty.com--Narrated by: Rebecca LarsonResearched by: Emily Airey