Katherine of Aragon: The Original Tudor Icon

What if a single painting could change how we see Shakespeare?In this episode, I’m joined by filmmaker Madoc Roberts, and the star of the documentary, Steve Wadlow, whose remarkable discovery is the subject of the new PBS documentary Picturing Shakespeare — available beginning November 12. In their first podcast conversation with an American host, Steven and Madoc share the story behind the film, the meticulous research that followed the painting’s emergence, and how art, history, and curiosity collide when the world’s most famous playwright takes center stage.🎭 Watch Picturing Shakespeare on PBS, then join us here for a thoughtful conversation about discovery, authenticity, and the enduring power of Shakespeare’s image.Check out their website and contact them with information here: https://www.isthiswilliamshakespeare.com/Watch until the end for some pictures provided by Madoc (filmaker).--Don't miss out on Spending the Holidays with Mary I - a 4 week online course led by Mary I expert, Dr. Peter Stiffell. Course begins November 19th, so get your ticket now!We are also have a FREE live chat with Sophie Bacchus-Waterman on November 15th - get your FREE ticket NOW!--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuests: Steve Wadlow & Madoc Roberts

11 Marras 25min

This one was so popular the first time that I've decided to send it out again in case you missed it, or want to watch it again! (From February 2025)Today, I’m joined by art historian Melanie V. Taylor to explore a fascinating theory—could a long-overlooked miniature actually depict the secret son of Elizabeth I? For centuries, historians have insisted she had no children, but Melanie's research might just challenge everything we thought we knew.Melanie's book: Truth of the Line We announced a new 4-week online course with Dr. Peter Stiffell called, ⁠⁠Spending the Holidays with Mary I⁠⁠!!Check out Rebecca's Thomas Seymour research at - ⁠Rebecca Larson's History Corner⁠ on ⁠Subtack⁠--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Melanie V. Taylor

9 Marras 1h 6min

In this episode of Dr. Emma & Me, we’re joined by special guest Dr. Ellie Woodacre to explore the fascinating lives of two often-misunderstood medieval queens — Joan of Navarre and Isabeau of Bavaria. Both women ruled in times of crisis, navigated suspicion as foreign consorts, and faced accusations ranging from extravagance to witchcraft. Together, we examine how Joan and Isabeau balanced duty and survival within the volatile courts of England and France, how politics and rumor shaped their reputations, and why modern scholarship invites us to see them anew — not as villains, but as resilient figures of power and endurance.--We just announced a new 4-week online course with Dr. Peter Stiffell called, ⁠Spending the Holidays with Mary I⁠!!Check out Rebecca's Thomas Seymour research at - Rebecca Larson's History Corner on Subtack--Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma Cahill MarronGuest: Dr. Ellie Woodacre

6 Marras 41min

Researching Elizabeth Boleyn is no easy task—but in this episode, we uncover how she navigated life at Tudor court: serving Katherine of Aragon, chaperoning Anne through the Great Matter, witnessing Wolsey’s fall, and standing at the edge of power during her daughter’s reign. We also compare her story to women like Jacquetta of Luxembourg and Elizabeth Woodville, revealing how influence moved quietly behind the throne.Get book now through Blackwells or pre-order (Americans) through AmazonWe just announced a new 4-week online course with Dr. Peter Stiffell called, ⁠Spending the Holidays with Mary I⁠!!Check out Rebecca's Thomas Seymour research at - Rebecca Larson's History Corner on Subtack--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sophie Bacchus-Waterman

4 Marras 59min

In this episode of Parallel Lives, we explore two women separated by a century yet bound by the same unrelenting drive for dynastic survival—Margaret Beaufort and Mary, Queen of Scots. Both lived in turbulent times, navigating treacherous politics, faith, and motherhood within the confines of monarchy. One built a dynasty from the shadows; the other lost everything in pursuit of her crown. Join us as we compare their paths to power, their resilience amid betrayal, and the legacy each left on the English throne.---We just announced a new 4-week online course with Dr. Peter Stiffell called, ⁠Spending the Holidays with Mary I⁠!!Check out Rebecca Larson's History Corner on Subtack---Hosts: Rebecca LarsonDr. Emma Cahill Marron

30 Loka 57min

I’m joined by historian, presenter and author Matt Lewis to dig into the myths and misconceptions surrounding Richard III. From Shakespeare’s dramatic portrayal to the truth behind his possible marriage plans with Elizabeth of York, his relationship with his brothers Edward IV and George, Duke of Clarence, and the question of whether he was truly a tyrant—we cover it all. Join us as we separate history from legend and uncover the real man behind the crown.Fundraiser for A Taste of Loyalty: IndiegogoMatt's podcast: Gone MedievalMatt's books can be purchased everywhere, but here is a link to his Amazon US page-----We just announced a new 4-week online course with Dr. Peter Stiffell called, Spending the Holidays with Mary I!! --Credits:Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matthew Lewis

28 Loka 52min

🔁 Encore Presentation: This fan-favorite episode originally aired in April 2025.It's come to my attention that I post so much content that some episodes get missed, so this is a way to make sure you see these great conversations!--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

26 Loka 51min

In this episode of Dr. Emma & Me, we explore Henry VIII’s fourth wife and the woman who famously refused him—on account of “a lack of heads.” Join us as we dive into their fascinating stories and wander through all sorts of historical tangents along the way!--Check out Rebecca's Substack - Rebecca Larson's History Corner at https://rebeccalarson.substack.com --Show Hosts: Rebecca Larson Dr. Emma Cahill Marron

23 Loka 49min