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!

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Darren's Book: Shakespeare's Borrowed Feathers - Barnes & Noble, AMAZON, Manchester University Press

Sir Ian Mckellen's Thomas More speech: https://youtu.be/AjEAeOshUGQ?si=v_f7clkBvLG3GMHB&t=138

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Host: Rebecca Larson

Guest: 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 Larson

Researched 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.

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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

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Guest Host: Dr. Emma Cahill Marron

Guest: 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

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Are you looking for a commercial-free experience? Head over to my Patreon!

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Host: Rebecca Larson

Guest: 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.

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This episode is available, commercial-free, over on Patreon!

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Narrated by: Rebecca Larson

Researched & 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

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Host: Rebecca Larson

Guest: 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

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Host: Rebecca Larson

Guest: 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.

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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!

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Host: Rebecca Larson

Guest: 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.

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Visit: Yale Center for British Art

https://britishart.yale.edu/

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Looking for a commercial-free experience? Head over to Patreon! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty

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Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma

Guest: 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.

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Narrated by: Dr. Emma Cahill Marron

Researched by: Emily Airey