Tudors Dynasty

In this episode, we explore the extraordinary life of Margaret Cavendish—17th-century duchess, writer, philosopher, and fearless trailblazer. From royal courts and civil war exile to scientific debate and science fiction, Margaret defied the norms of her time to leave a legacy still felt today. Join me as we uncover how “Mad Madge” challenged gender roles, questioned the foundations of science, and imagined a world where women ruled—not just in fiction, but in thought.--Credits:Narrator: Rebecca LarsonResearched by: Emily AireyMusic by Marco Maier from Pixabay

We're back with the second episode in our Parallel Lives series, and this time we're exploring the unexpected connections between Juana of Castile and Anne Boleyn. They had far more in common than I ever imagined. Since it's the follow-up to our first episode, we begin with a quick recap, share some great listener feedback, and wander down a few fun historical side roads—before diving into the fascinating parallels between Juana and Anne. If you'd rather skip straight to the comparison, jump ahead to 12:45.--Watch: Parallel Lives - Isabel I of Castile and Katherine of AragonEpisode with Sylvia where she discusses the phoenix--Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma Cahill Marron

King John’s legacy is often overshadowed by failure, but his daughters left a far more fascinating mark. In this episode, we explore the lives of his legitimate daughters, Joan, Isabella, and Eleanor, as well as his illegitimate daughter, Joan of Wales. Their stories reveal the unexpected power and influence royal women could wield in the 13th century.Sharon's books on Amazon--Show your support for the show and become a patron! As a patron, you'll receive commercial-free episodes, early access, and exclusive content.Read more about history on the website: https://tudorsdynasty.com--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sharon Bennett Connolly

What do Voltaire, smallpox, and royal scandal have in common? Queen Caroline of Ansbach. In this episode, we uncover the story of the brilliant, bold, and often overlooked consort of George II—an Enlightenment queen who pulled political strings, promoted science, and navigated the drama of court life with razor-sharp intellect. Tune in to meet the queen history forgot to spotlight.--Narrated by: Rebecca LarsonResearched and written by: Emily Airey

Welcome to the very first official episode of Dr. Emma and Me! Today, we're exploring the fascinating parallel lives of Katherine of Aragon and her formidable mother, Isabel of Castile—two queens shaped by power, faith, and destiny.--Want to support the show, get commercial-free episodes, early access, and exclusive content? https://patreon.com/tudorsdynastyLove to read about history? https://tudorsdynasty.com--Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Dr EmmaImage Credits:Isabel of Castile: Museo del PradoKatherine of Aragon: Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza, Madrid

This episode goes far beyond Thomas Cromwell. Join us as we explore the shifting tides of religion in Tudor England—from the ruthless politics of the Reformation to the 'what ifs' of Edward VI’s reign. We discuss how the Rough Wooing turned England into the joke of Europe, and how Elizabeth I’s open-minded approach to faith helped steady a fractured kingdom—cementing her legacy as the true mother of the Church of England. If you're curious about how faith, power, and personality shaped a dynasty, this one's for you.--Host Rebecca LarsonGuest: Prof. Diarmaid MacCullochRecording Location: Courtyard at Cadhay Manor House in Devon.This is a repeat episode from last Summer. If you'd like to watch the video you can do so, ⁠HERE⁠ !

Today, I’m joined by the brilliant Dr. Steven Veerapen to unravel how the fear and condemnation of witchcraft evolved from the reign of Henry VIII to that of King James. Trust me—this isn’t your typical dry history lecture. Steven brings it to life in a way that’s both eye-opening and fascinating. If you’re thinking “ugh, witch trials—boring,” think again. You won’t want to miss this one!Dr. Veerapen's Books--Love the show but prefer a commercial-free experience, early access, and exclusive content? Head on over to my Patreon page!--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Steven Veerapen

Today, I’m joined by the lovely Sylvia Barbara Soberton for a fascinating conversation about Tudor women in portraiture. We explore the stories behind the images—like Margaret Beaufort wearing spectacles (and not always dressed like a nun!) and the hidden message tucked inside Elizabeth I’s Exchequer Ring. I also do my best to show you the portraits as we discuss them!Links to books about Margaret Beaufort's inventory:Cambridge BookOxford Book--Sylvia's BookSoberton on Substack--Are you looking for a commercial-free episode, early access, and exclusive content? Head over to my Patreon page!!--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sylvia Barbara Soberton

He was meant to marry her sister, but fate had other plans. In this episode, we uncover the remarkable life of Constance Mozart, the woman history often calls a footnote. Far more than a second choice, she was a devoted wife, mother, musician, and fierce guardian of Mozart’s legacy. Discover the strength, heartbreak, and brilliance of the woman behind the music.--Are you looking for a commercial-free experience, early access, exclusive content and more!? Head over to Patreon!!Love to read about history? Head over to my website! https://tudorsdynasty.com--Narrated by: Rebecca LarsonResearched & Written by: Emily Airey

Dr. Emma and I explore the powerful women who shaped Henry VIII’s world. While history often highlights the men who influenced him, today we turn our attention to the fierce and formidable women who whispered in the ear of a king.--If you love the show and want exclusive content, commercial-free episodes, and more, head over to ⁠Patreon⁠!Love to read about history? Head to my website: ⁠https://tudorsdynasty.com⁠--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Emma Cahill Marron

In this episode, we explore Tony Riches' Bess – Tudor Gentlewoman, uncovering the life of Bess Throckmorton, a woman who captured Sir Walter Raleigh's heart and played a subtle yet powerful role in the Tudor court. Riches’ book reveals the secrets, ambition, and quiet strength of this fascinating figure in Elizabethan history.Tony's Book on Amazon--If you love the show and want exclusive content, commercial-free episodes, and more - head over to Patreon!Love to read about history? Head to my website: https://tudorsdynasty.com--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Tony Riches

Anne Neville’s life was anything but ordinary. Born to the powerful “Kingmaker” Earl of Warwick, she survived exile, two royal marriages, civil war, and the loss of a son—ultimately becoming Queen of England beside Richard III. In this episode, we uncover the remarkable journey of a woman often overlooked in history, yet whose story reveals the quiet strength and resilience required to survive one of England’s most turbulent eras.--Show your support and get commercial-free episodes, early access, and exclusive content over on PatreonRead more about the Tudors AND beyond at https://tudorsdynasty.com--Narrator: Rebecca LarsonResearched & Written by: Emily Airey

Alejandro Vergara-Sharp’s upcoming book Clara Peeters explores the life and work of the pioneering Flemish still-life painter. As one of the few women artists of her time, Peeters mastered the art of depicting luxurious banquets and subtly included self-portraits in reflective surfaces. This book highlights her role in shaping 17th-century still-life painting and the cultural world of early modern Antwerp.Books by Alejandro Vergara Sharp:Clara PeetersWhat is Quality in Art?--Host: Dr. EmmaGuest: Alejandro Vergara Sharp

Today, I’m thrilled to welcome back the brilliant Amy McElroy for a deep dive into the fascinating life of Erasmus of Rotterdam! This conversation was full of unexpected twists—just when I thought I had a handle on his story, another surprise popped up. You won’t want to miss it!*Find Amy's books everywhere, but here is the Amazon link--Would you prefer a commercial-free episode, early access and exclusive content? Head over to my Patreon!--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Amy McElroy

In this episode, we dive into the dramatic and controversial life of Joan of Kent—daughter of scandal, wife of two men at once, and mother to a future king. Known for her beauty and boldness, Joan defied convention and royal expectation with a secret marriage that nearly brought down the crown. From forbidden love to political power, discover the woman who became England’s "Fair Maid" and changed royal history forever.--Would you prefer a commercial-free experience? Head over to my Patreon!--Narrated by: Rebecca LarsonResearched by: Emily Airey

Today, I'm thrilled to welcome back historian and author Helene Harrison for a captivating discussion on the love triangle that changed the course of history—the infamous "Great Matter" involving Henry VIII, Katherine of Aragon, and Anne Boleyn. Their tangled story sparked a series of events that helped make the Tudors one of the most iconic dynasties in history.Helene's Books on AmazonTudor Blogger Website--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Helene Harrison

Today, I'm joined by Shakespeare lecturer and author Dr. Darren Freebury-Jones for a fascinating conversation about one historical figure who has long remained an enigma to me—William Shakespeare.We delve into why Shakespeare remains an enduring icon, what he may have been like in real life, how his writing evolved, the ways his work shaped our understanding of history, his famously sharp insults—and even the tale of how he may have made a tree magical!--Darren's Book: Shakespeare's Borrowed Feathers - Barnes & Noble, AMAZON, Manchester University PressSir Ian Mckellen's Thomas More speech: https://youtu.be/AjEAeOshUGQ?si=v_f7clkBvLG3GMHB&t=138--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Darren Freebury-Jones

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