Tudors Dynasty

This is also available in VIDEO format on #spotify and #youtube.In this episode of Dr. Emma & Me, we’re joined by Dr. Carole Levin to explore the fascinating relationship between two iconic sisters—Mary I and Elizabeth I—and the ways they were alike, and profoundly different.Carole's books --CHECK OUT the details on our new 6-week online course all about the life of Katherine of Aragon before she became queen of England: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/manage/events/1492435036369/detailsEarly bird pricing now available for a limited time!--Hosts: Dr. Emma & Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Carole Levin

In this episode, Dr. Peter Stiffell reveals the mystery behind an artifact once thought to belong to Mary I, only to be linked to another Mary. We explore royal iconography, Mary I’s image, and Dr. Stiffell’s research on royal portraits, along with his new website dedicated to this fascinating field. Tune in for a fascinating look at history through the lens of royal imagery!DrPeterStiffell.com--Enjoy the show? Show your support and join our growing Patreon community! CLICK HERE--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Peter Stiffell

In this episode, Rebecca Larson uncovers the extraordinary life of Emma of Normandy—a woman who defied the limitations of her time to become Queen of England not once, but twice. From child bride to political powerbroker, Emma navigated Viking invasions, shifting allegiances, and royal rivalries with unwavering determination. As wife to both Æthelred the Unready and King Cnut, and mother to two future kings, her influence shaped the English monarchy during one of its most turbulent eras. Discover the woman behind the crown—and why her story deserves to be remembered.--Become a patron on Patreon to get commercial-free access, early access and so much more!--Narrated by: Rebecca LarsonResearched by: Emily Airey

In this episode of Parallel Lives, we step into the glittering yet treacherous world of the Burgundian court to explore the intertwined lives of Margaret of York and her stepdaughter, Mary of Burgundy. One, an English princess turned political powerhouse; the other, a reluctant heiress caught between duty and danger. Together, their choices shaped the fate of a crumbling duchy and paved the way for the rise of the Habsburg dynasty.--Join our Patreon community! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Hosts:Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma

Available in VIDEO format on Spotify and YouTube!After the last Myths & Misconceptions episode on Anne Boleyn, the response was overwhelming—so many of you asked for more! And you know I aim to please. So, I invited Sylvia back for round two. This time, she drops a bombshell about the real meaning behind Anne’s famous “Moost Happi” medal—and I did not see it coming.--Sylvia's Books on AmazonLink to watch/listen to Sylvia's previous episodes on the show!Support the show by becoming a Patron on Patreon!--Credits:Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sylvia Barbara Soberton

Crowned as a child and trained like a prince, Queen Christina of Sweden defied every expectation placed upon her. From her glittering court of scholars to a shocking abdication, a secret conversion, and a dramatic reinvention in Rome, Christina’s life was anything but conventional. This episode explores the story of a queen who refused to be defined—by her crown, her country, or her time.--Tuesday and Thursday episodes are available in video on #spotify and #youtube--SUPPORT THE SHOW!--Narrated by: Rebecca LarsonResearched by: Emily Airey

*Episodes are available in video format on ⁠Spotify ⁠and ⁠YouTube⁠In this episode of Dr. Emma & Me: Parallel Lives, we explore the intertwined legacies of two powerful women who shaped early modern Europe in very different courts—Isabel Clara Eugenia of Spain and Anna of Denmark. Both daughters of dynasties and cultural patrons with sharp political instincts, they carved out influence within their respective spheres. Join Rebecca and Dr. Emma as they trace the lives, challenges, and impact of these remarkable women navigating monarchy, motherhood, and power on the world stage.--Show your support of the show by becoming a patron on ⁠Patreon ⁠- your generosity helps to keep this show alive. As an indy podcaster I need your help to continue offering new content.--Book suggestions:⁠https://manchesteruniversitypress.co.uk/9781526142498/⁠⁠https://www.getty.edu/art/exhibitions/spectacular_rubens/⁠⁠https://tiendaprado.com/en/books/7937-rubens-s-workshop-9788484806226.html⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Jonathan-Bro

In this episode, we explore the remarkable life of Marguerite d’Angoulême—Renaissance writer, queen, and sister to King François I of France. Discover how Marguerite’s bold literary works, like the Heptameron, challenged gender norms, and how her passion for religious reform placed her at the heart of early evangelical movements. We’ll trace her journey from the French court to the throne of Navarre, revealing a woman who shaped politics, faith, and the role of women in 16th-century Europe.--Head over to Patreon and consider becoming a patron! You'll get commercial-free episodes, early access and exclusive content! You can also join as a FREE member and gain access to the group chat.--Credits:Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Emily Lalande

Step into the shadows of Renaissance Italy to uncover the real Lucrezia Borgia. Branded a poisoner and seductress, she has long been the center of scandal—but was there more to her story? Join us as we explore Lucrezia’s rise from political pawn to powerful duchess, and how she carved out a legacy beyond the infamy of the Borgia name.--Narrated by: Rebecca LarsonResearched by: Emily Airey

**This episode is available in video format on Spotify and YouTube!In this episode of Dr. Emma & Me, we dive into the lives of two extraordinary women of the 16th century: Mary of Hungary, the powerful queen and regent who shaped European politics, and Margaret Roper, the brilliant daughter of Sir Thomas More who defied expectations with her intellect and loyalty. Discover how their stories reveal the challenges and triumphs of women navigating a world ruled by men.Dr. Emma's book suggestion on Mary of Hungary by N Garcia Perez: Mary of Hungary, Renaissance Patron and Collector: Gender, Art and Culture--Join the conversation on Patreon as a FREE member in our community chat room! Paid members (patrons) get commercial-free episodes, early access & more!--Co-Hosts:Rebecca Larson & Dr. Emma Cahill Marron

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Joanne Paul, acclaimed author of a sweeping new biography on Thomas More, to peel back the layers of one of Tudor England’s most fascinating figures. Together, we explore More’s sharp wit, his complicated relationship with ambition inherited from his father, and his distaste for court life—even as he found himself a witness to some of the most pivotal moments of the Tudor dynasty. We’ll also discuss his surprisingly cutting opinions about members of Katherine of Aragon’s household upon her arrival in England, and why the man behind Utopia was far more than the saint—or villain—history often remembers. Join us as we uncover the human side of Thomas More: the reluctant courtier, the keen observer, and the man who made kings uneasy.Get a copy of the book - Thomas More: A Life--Join the conversation and become a free member over on Patreon!--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Joanne Paul

She defied convention, sailed under a black flag, and vanished from the records just as quickly as she rose. In this episode, we follow the trail of Anne Bonny—pirate, outlaw, and mystery—and ask: how does a woman who made history simply disappear?--Looking for a commercial-free experience, early access or exclusive content? Head over to my Patreon!You can also become a FREE member and join the conversation!--Narrated by: Rebecca LarsonResearched by: Emily Airey

This episode is available in video format (highly recommended) on Spotify or YouTube!!In this episode of Dr. Emma & Me: Parallel Lives, we step into the Baroque brilliance of two of the era’s greatest painters—Peter Paul Rubens and Diego Velázquez with Dr. Alejandro Vergara Sharp. Though born worlds apart, their lives intersected through diplomacy, royal courts, and their unparalleled ability to capture power on canvas.Rubens, the polished Flemish diplomat-artist, and Velázquez, the introspective Spanish court painter, each navigated the treacherous politics of 17th-century Europe with a brush in hand. How did their work reflect—and shape—their positions in court? What set them apart, and where did their paths cross?Want to get straight to the episode and skip the banter? Fast Foward to 13:12!JOIN THE CONVERSATION OVER IN OUR COMMUNITY!!--Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Dr Emma Cahill MarronGuest: Dr. Alejandro Vergara Sharp

Whether you're an Anne Boleyn enthusiast or rolled your eyes at yet another episode about her—trust me, you’ll want to listen to this one. Anne was my first love in Tudor history, and I’ll admit I worried this might be a retread of familiar ground. I was wrong. In this conversation with historian Sylvia Barbara Soberton, I discovered fresh perspectives and surprising details I’d never heard before.Find Sylvia's books everywhere, including Amazon!Sylvia's Substack--Join us over on Patreon! (There is also an app for Patreon!)--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sylvia Barbara Soberton

In this episode, we take a brief look at the life of Cecily Neville, Duchess of York—mother of two kings and a key figure in the Wars of the Roses. Born into power and surrounded by turmoil, Cecily’s story is one of loyalty, loss, and quiet strength during one of England’s most chaotic eras.--Join the conversation with other fans of history over on my Patreon page! It's free to chat!Read more about history at https://tudorsdynasty.com--Narrated by: Rebecca LarsonResearched by: Emily Airey

In this episode of Dr. Emma & Me, we continue our Parallel Lives series by examining two powerful women who shaped the politics of Habsburg Europe (and beyond): Margaret of Austria and her great-niece Margaret of Parma.--Have you missed out on the first two episodes in this series? Don't worry, here they are:Episode 1: Isabel I of Castile & Katherine of AragonEpisode 2: Juana of Castile & Anne Boleyn--Join the conversation over on PATREON!--Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Dr Emma Cahill Marron--Image Credits:Margaret of Parma:Philadelphia Museum of ArtMargaret of Austria:© Royal Collection Enterprises Limited 2025 | Royal Collection TrustMary (Rose) Tudor:The National Gallery (London)Mary of Hungary:Rijks MuseumChristina of Denmark:The National Gallery (London)Margaret Roper:Metropolitan Museum of Art

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