The British History Podcast

<p>With Count Henry and Robert of Belleme imprisoned under his tender care, Bishop Odo had free rein to guide the impressionable Duke Robert in whatever direction he wanted. And he had a direction in mind.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/459-lashing-out/">459 – Lashing Out</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>The last two episodes have been focused on how King William Rufus handled the aftermath of the rebellion, and the political moves being made. But Rufus didn’t exist in a vacuum… and across the Channel, his brothers were also making moves.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/458-henrys-story/">458 – Henry’s Story</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>William the Conqueror had not set his sons up for success, and at the heart of it was land. Obviously, the way he distributed those lands in his Will had been a bit of a disaster, as it had set his two eldest sons up for war. </p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/457-the-bachelor-king/">457 – The Bachelor King</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>I’ve gotta be honest, some of these spells seem a bit rude.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/medieval-magic-sample-shout-at-the-devil/">Medieval Magic Sample: Shout at the Devil</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>William Rufus’ first year as King had probably not gone down as he hoped. And as Bishop Odo and his co-conspirators boarded their ships and sought sanctuary in Normandy…Rufus could only return to court and count the rest of his problems..</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/456-law-and-order-durham/">456 – Law and Order: Durham</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>Got a jealousy problem and a spare leek? Boy, do we ever have a cure for you.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/medieval-magic-sample-we-read-the-latin/">Medieval Magic Sample: We Read the Latin</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>Word of Rufus’ army, and the destruction of the rebel forces at Tunbridge, had no doubt reached Pevensey and its commander, Robert of Mortain… and I think it’s highly likely that the messengers also reported that the King’s army had turned north, towards Rochester. Bishop Odo’s stronghold.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/455-odos-rebellion-lord-of-the-flies/">455 – Odo’s Rebellion: Lord of the Flies</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>It was Easter of 1088. This was, typically, a time when the most powerful figures of England would gather at Court. But this wasn’t a typical year.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/454-odos-rebellion-worst-easter-ever/">454 – Odo’s Rebellion: Worst Easter Ever</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>Primogeniture, the practice of handing all wealth and power from father to the eldest son, had done a lot to consolidate power along single family lines. But it created all manner of problems for …well, pretty much everyone else.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/453-odos-rebellion-the-cold-war/">453 – Odo’s Rebellion: The Cold War</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>We’re joining the Sisterhood of the Travelling Uterus for this one.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/medieval-medicine-sample-trotula-edition/">Medieval Medicine Sample: Trotula Edition</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>Somewhere around the time William the First was bursting out of his tomb like roasted chestnut and William the Second was making it rain with his dead dad’s money….something was turning in western culture as a whole.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/452-odo-oh-yes/">452 – Odo? Oh Yes.</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>You know, I almost titled the last episode “The Gang Goes To A Funeral” but the trouble was that the gang /didn’t/ go to the funeral. All of them decided they had somewhere else to be. </p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/451-the-lucky-few/">451 – The Lucky Few</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>It was early September of 1087, and for weeks…nearly two months, in fact… people had been discussing William’s impending death, and worrying about what would happen next. And for good reason. This family, which ruled over Normandy, had a history of infighting and civil wars, especially during times of succession.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/450-begin-with-a-bang/">450 – Begin With A Bang</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>Strap yourselves in. These kids are something else.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/449-chapter-ten-the-boys/">449 – Chapter Ten: The Boys</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>The story of William and the conquest has been a long road, and I’ve heard from some of you that this season has been challenging to listen to. I get it. No matter how awful William is he never seems to face any real consequences…</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/448-the-death-of-william-the-conqueror/">448 – The Death of William the Conqueror</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>That’s right, just like big pharma, we’re giving out a free sample.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/medieval-medicine-sample/">Medieval Medicine Sample</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>If the last few episodes have seemed a little confusing, then you’re hearing them right. Europe at the end of the 11th century was a rapidly changing world and it is all going to have a profound impact on the history of Britain. I want you to really have a good understanding of what is […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/447-the-end-of-the-conquest/">447 – The End of the Conquest</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>When we left off, things were looking pretty bad for William and William’s hope of a legacy. Maine was once again in rebellion against Normandy. But this time half of France seemed to be looking for an excuse to join them. Denmark was preparing an invasion of England … and even William’s brother-in-law, Count Robert […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/446-death-and-taxes/">446 – Death and Taxes</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>Matilda was dead and now things were coming apart at the seams.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/445-feeding-frenzy/">445 – Feeding Frenzy</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>Based on the e-mails I have been getting, some of you are having a hard time understanding why on god’s green earth did Odo think he could just trot down to Rome and become the new Pope. The truth is he was less crazy than we might think, and I’m going to take a moment […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/444-holy-beef/">444 – Holy Beef</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>In this episode we delve into the tumultuous reign of King Gruffydd ap Cynan of Gwynedd and the political intricacies of William’s relationship with Matilda and his ambitious half-brother, Bishop Odo. It is an intricate web of power struggles, betrayals, and shifting dynamics between church and state that will only grow more complex and dangerous. […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/443-were-bigger-than-jesus/">443 – We’re Bigger Than Jesus</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>Norman interventionism into their neighbors was only just beginning… and the events at Mynydd Carn gave them just the excuse they needed.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/442-mynydd-carn/">442 – Mynydd Carn</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>Tensions rise as rebellion and violence sweep through Northumbria. As news of the uprising reaches the south, King William, though initially absent, takes action and sends his half-brother, Bishop Odo, to deal with it. Odo’s reputation for cruelty was well earned and the people of Durham suffer greatly at his hands. In the midst of […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/441-god-bothering/">441 – God Bothering</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>King Malcolm and the Scots have been raiding the northern reaches of England, leaving the Northumbrians to deal with the aftermath. Meanwhile, William is not speaking to his son Robert and is spreading rumors about him to anyone who will listen. Robert’s enemies are enjoying the show, but not everyone is amused. The powerful members […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/440-this-is-fine/">440 – This is Fine</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>William, the Duke of Normandy and King of England, has been humiliated by his son Robert. Despite years of mocking and disrespect from William, Robert has defeated him in battle and spared his life. This has weakened William physically and reputationally. Meanwhile, Robert travels through Europe, attending tournaments and gaining support from powerful nobles who […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/439-juggling-responsibilities/">439 – Juggling Responsibilities</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>In a fit of rebellion, Robert, the eldest son of William the Conqueror, marches out on his own, defying his father and seeking adventure. However, reality sets in as he realizes the challenges and consequences of his actions. With the support of his companions, who are wealthy and politically connected, Robert launches a rebellion against […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/438-roberts-rebellion/">438 – Robert’s Rebellion</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>Crown Prince Robert and his knights had been humiliated by Rufus and Henry and the royal hall erupts into chaos. This unprecedented public disgrace challenges the honor culture deeply ingrained in Norman society, sparking outrage and a quest for vengeance. The altercation underscores a volatile rivalry within the royal family, exposing deep-seated tensions and ambitions […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/437-everyones-pissed/">437 – Everyone’s Pissed</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>William the Conqueror, preferring Normandy over England, spends his later reign focusing on continental politics and property disputes, often resolving them personally alongside his politically influential wife, Matilda. Meanwhile, their heir Robert grows increasingly frustrated by his limited role and lack of authority within his family’s dominion, feeling sidelined in critical military and political decisions. […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/436-taking-the-piss/">436 – Taking the Piss</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>In the turmoil of William the Conqueror’s reign, Waltheof, the last English-born Earl, becomes entangled in a complex web of loyalty, rebellion, and the pursuit of justice. His long imprisonment and eventual execution for alleged treason showcase the intricate dance between Norman law and the expectations of nobility, highlighting the deep divisions and political maneuvers […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/435-trials-and-tribulations/">435 – Trials and Tribulations</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>As William the Conqueror’s sons grow, their future roles and the weight of their lineage come into sharp focus. Robert, William’s eldest, faces disappointment and tension with his father, revealing cracks in their relationship and Robert’s struggle for recognition and Normandy’s control. Richard, the second son, embodies the chivalric ideal but meets a tragic fate […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/434-the-boys/">434 – The Boys</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>In 1075, King Bleddyn of Gwynedd and Powys, a formidable leader aiming for Welsh unification, finds himself embroiled in a complex web of power struggles. His aspirations clash with King Caradog and the turbulent politics of southwestern Wales. Amidst these tensions, King Bleddyn is cunningly assassinated in a meeting, plunging Gwynedd into a succession crisis. […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/433-north-wales-i-love-mess/">433 – North Wales: I Love Mess</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>Here’s a 15 minute sample of what we’re talking about on the Member’s feed.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/bonus-episode-on-courtliness/">Bonus Episode on Courtliness</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>In 1075, Earl Roger and Earl Ralph lead a significant rebellion against King William, spurred by personal grievances and political ambitions. This insurrection, ignited at a wedding, quickly evolves into a major crisis, challenging the king’s authority. The plot thickens with Waltheof’s involvement, revealing intricate alliances and betrayals among the nobility. The uprising, marked by […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/432-the-revolt-of-the-earls/">432 – The Revolt of the Earls</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>In 1075, amidst the backdrop of William’s strained relations with England and his noble court, a grand wedding intertwines political machinations with matrimonial celebration. Earl Roger and Ralph de Gael, leveraging their noble statuses and familial connections, conspire to challenge William’s authority. Their plot, hatched under the guise of marital bliss, seeks to capitalize on […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/431-the-gang-has-a-wedding/">431 – The Gang Has A Wedding</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>As King William navigates the complexities of ruling England, he faces the challenges of governance, church reforms, and foreign affairs with mixed outcomes. His interactions with the newly installed continental clergy and the ecclesiastical restructuring reflect his struggles with power dynamics, cultural integration, and administrative burdens. William’s ventures into Maine and dealings with internal and […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/430-is-it-good-to-be-king/">430 – Is It Good To Be King?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>In 1072, the landscape of power in England and Normandy is tumultuous, with William’s conquest still facing resistance. King Malcolm III of Scotland, with ties to the English throne through his marriage to Margaret, sister of Edgar the Ætheling, poses a subtle threat to William. This period sees a blending of cultural and political norms […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/429-power-brokers-and-power-breakers/">429 – Power Brokers and Power Breakers</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>Five years post-Hastings, England remains embroiled in resistance against William’s rule, witnessing widespread rebellions across its towns and cities. Despite facing unrelenting opposition, William’s ruthless strategies and disregard for societal norms have enabled him to maintain control. His actions reveal not just a desire for kingship but an imperial ambition, aiming to forge a new […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/428-tightening-the-grip/">428 – Tightening the Grip</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>Thirty thousand pounds. That’s what the Gesta claims Hereward charged the Normans for the return of their warlike Abbot Turold. Thirty thousand. It is such an obviously inflated number that it almost feels like the scribe is looking directly in the camera and saying “Hey, don’t forget, some of this story is legendary… but we […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/427-hereward-back-into-the-mist/">427 – Hereward: Back Into the Mist</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>In 1071, amidst the backdrop of Norman conquest and resistance, the narrative unfolds around the tragic fall of the English nobility and the calamitous effects of William’s policies. This year witnesses the catastrophic fallout from the Battle of Cassel, where pivotal Norman figures, entangled in Flemish civil strife, suffer greatly. Simultaneously, William’s manipulation of English […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/426-everyone-has-their-limits/">426 – Everyone Has Their Limits</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>In 1071, the betrayal by Abbot Thurstan to William, revealing Ely’s defenses, marks a pivotal moment in Hereward’s resistance. Despite starvation and siege hardships, Hereward’s refusal to surrender underscores his unyielding spirit against Norman dominance. William’s struggle to amass a willing army for the final assault, due to past failures, reveals his reliance on promises […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/425-hereward-the-fall-of-ely/">425 – Hereward: The Fall of Ely</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>As the siege of Ely intensifies, the story takes unexpected turns with witchcraft, cultural beliefs in the power of water as a spiritual portal, and Hereward’s tactical mastery against Norman forces. William’s repeated failures to breach Ely, despite superior numbers and resources, underscore the resilience and ingenuity of the defenders. The narrative delves into the […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/424-hereward-ft-judas-priest/">424 – Hereward: ft. Judas Priest</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>William’s efforts to conquer Ely, hindered by the resourceful Hereward, climax with a bold yet flawed strategy involving commandeering all boats for a siege. The narrative weaves through a series of mishaps, including an incendiary sabotage by Hereward, resulting in a disastrous loss for the Normans. This account not only highlights the cunning and resilience […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/423-hereward-the-lion-the-witch-and-the-war-hero/">423 – Hereward: The Lion, The Witch, and the War Hero</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>Hereward the Wake, embodying the essence of a folk hero, engages in a daring operation to infiltrate King William’s camp, armed with only his wit and courage. Disguised as a potter, he navigates through enemy lines, gathering intelligence on the King’s plans. Despite the threat of exposure and the dire consequences of his mission, Hereward’s […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/422-hereward-the-man-the-myth-the-legend/">422 – Hereward: The Man, the Myth, The Legend</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>King William’s siege of Ely, motivated by Hereward’s defiance, epitomizes the struggle between Norman conquest and English resistance. William’s frustration peaks as he witnesses Hereward not just surviving but thriving, bolstering his legend. The king’s attempts to storm Ely through a makeshift causeway and incentivized bravery culminate in a disastrous and almost comical failure, as […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/421-the-wake-at-ely/">421 – The Wake at Ely</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>Hereward’s raid on Peterborough and subsequent alliance with Danish forces highlight a critical phase in his resistance against Norman oppression. Seeking to protect the Abbey’s wealth from Norman plunder, Hereward’s actions inadvertently lead to the town’s devastation and capture of monks, complicating his mission. This episode reflects the complex interplay of politics, loyalty, and strategy, […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/420-the-wake-and-the-earl/">420 – The Wake and the Earl</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>Hereward the Wake, a figure of enigmatic life and legendary prowess, reemerges into the historical narrative with stories filled with feuds, exile, and resistance against Norman oppression. After a period of political turmoil, he returns to England to avenge the injustices against his family by the Normans, showcasing his military skill and leadership. Hereward’s actions […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/419-the-wake-at-peterborough/">419 – The Wake at Peterborough</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>Following the Harrying of the North, King William’s grueling campaign through the Pennines during winter reflects the harsh conditions faced by his army, marred by low morale, severe weather, and logistical nightmares. Despite these challenges, William’s strategic manipulation and insistence on pushing forward underscore his determination to consolidate power. The campaign, marked by extreme violence […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/418-gods-chosen/">418 – God’s Chosen</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>In the aftermath of William the Conqueror’s devastating Harrying of the North, King Malcolm III of Scotland seizes the opportunity to raid Northern England, capitalizing on the chaos and destruction. Amid the scorched earth and displacement caused by William’s campaign, Malcolm’s forces engage in systematic pillaging, exploiting the vulnerability of the English countryside. The narrative […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/417-the-far-more-than-four-horsemen/">417 – The (far more than four) Horsemen</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>

<p>In 1069, William the Conqueror’s brutal campaign, known as the Harrying of the North, devastates Yorkshire and surrounding areas. This scorched-earth strategy aims to quash northern rebellions, leading to widespread destruction, famine, and a significant reduction in population. The campaign, criticized even by contemporaries for its ruthlessness, leaves a lasting impact on the region, altering […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com/416-the-harrying-of-the-north/">416 – The Harrying of the North</a> first appeared on <a href="https://www.thebritishhistorypodcast.com">The British History Podcast</a>.</p>