Mothers of Kings: Women Behind the Power

Lady Jane Franklin and Lady Hester Stanhope defied 19th-century societal norms with their daring adventures and relentless curiosity. Lady Jane, wife of Arctic explorer Sir John Franklin, became legendary for her tireless search for his lost expedition, funding multiple missions and shaping Arctic exploration. Meanwhile, Lady Hester, niece of Prime Minister William Pitt, abandoned English society to travel the Middle East, becoming the first Englishwoman to enter the Great Pyramid and earning the title "Queen of the Desert." Both women left lasting legacies as pioneers who challenged expectations and embraced the unknown.--Narrator: Rebecca LarsonResearch: Emily Airey

9 Helmi 23min

Today, I'm joined by award-winning playwright Melisa Annis and multi-Grammy-nominated songwriter Jamie Floyd to dive into an exciting new Tudor musical you won’t want to miss—plus, get a sneak peek at one of the songs from the show! Tickets to The King's Wife Instagram -- Credits: Host: Rebecca Larson Guests: Melissa Annis & Jamie Floyd

6 Helmi 39min

Today I am joined by historian and author Michele Schindler to discuss a rarity - a well-documented woman from history. Today we discuss Alice Chaucer. Book: What is Better Than a Good Woman? -- Become a Patron/Member on Patreon! Read articles on royal history here: https://tudorsdynasty.com -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Michele Schindler

4 Helmi 51min

Elisabeth-Charlotte, Duchess of Orléans, was a woman of sharp wit, unflinching honesty, and fierce independence. Married into the French royal family, she navigated the intrigues of Louis XIV’s court while maintaining a prolific correspondence that offers a rare, candid glimpse into 17th-century aristocratic life. In this episode, we explore her turbulent marriage, her fraught relationship with Madame de Maintenon, and the staggering 60,000 letters she left behind—an unparalleled chronicle of the grandeur, gossip, and political maneuvering of her time. -- COMMERCIAL-FREE EPISODE ON PATREON -- Narrator: Rebecca Larson Researched by: Emily Airey

2 Helmi 16min

*Attention: This episode contains content that may be disturbing to some. Today, I'm joined by historian and author Annie Whitehead to delve into the chilling tales of murder in Anglo-Saxon England. We'll explore the stories, the intrigue, and the gruesome details behind some of the most documented murders of the era. Book: Murder in Anglo-Saxon England: Justice, Wergild, Revenge  -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Annie Whitehead

30 Tammi 57min

In this episode, Rebecca sits down with historian and author Amy McElroy to delve into the fascinating lives of women in the Tudor era. Their conversation spans a variety of topics, including education, marriage, work, murder, and so much more! Book: Women's Lives in the Tudor Era, by Amy McElroy COMMERCIAL-FREE ON PATREON! -- Host: Rebecca Larson Guest: Amy McElroy

28 Tammi 59min

Explore the life and reign of Queen Victoria, delving into the events and challenges that shaped her legacy and the British Empire. A thoughtful look at the monarch behind the crown. Film of Queen Victoria's Funeral Procession -- Narrated by: Rebecca Larson Researched by: Emily Airey

26 Tammi 25min

Holbein, one of the most prolific artists of the 16th century, left behind an extraordinary collection of sketches and paintings that offer us a rare glimpse into the faces of history's most intriguing figures. Today, Sylvia Barbara Soberton joins Dr. Emma and me to share her fascinating journey in uncovering the true identity behind a Holbein sketch that had been misidentified for many years. Sylvia's Books -- Credits: Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma Cahill Marron Guest: Sylvia Barbara Soberton

23 Tammi 59min