Episodes

  • Episode 288 - Food Waste & Preservation in Tudor England with Dr Eleanor Barnett
    Apr 19 2025

    Join host Natalie Grueninger in this episode of Talking Tudors, as she welcomes back Dr. Eleanor Barnett, a food historian from Cardiff University, to discuss her latest book, "Leftovers: A History of Food Waste and Preservation." Dive into the evolution of our food consumption habits from the Tudor era to today, and discover the creative ways our ancestors preserved food. Learn about the societal and religious influences on food preservation and waste in the past, and what lessons we can apply to combat modern food waste issues.

    If you're passionate about Tudor history or interested in sustainable living practices, this episode promises a captivating blend of historical and contemporary insights. Engage with us in this lively discussion and uncover the timeless allure of the Tudor dynasty.

    Visit Dr Barnett's website

    https://www.eleanorbarnett.com/

    Follow Dr Barnett on Instagram

    @historyeats

    Find out more about your host at https://www.nataliegrueninger.com

    Join me for '365 Days with Katherine of Aragon'!

    https://onthetudortrail.com/Blog/2025/04/05/365-days-with-katherine-of-aragon-2/

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    37 mins
  • Episode 287 - The Dissolution of the Monasteries with Professor James Clark
    Apr 4 2025

    Welcome to another episode of Talking Tudors, where host Natalie Grueninger is joined by Professor James Clark to explore the intricate history of the dissolution of the monasteries in 16th century England. Discover the vital roles these institutions played in everyday life and the complex, gradual process behind their dissolution under Henry VIII’s reign. James Clark, bringing his extensive expertise, unveils the multifaceted economic, social, and cultural impacts of these closures, challenging common misconceptions about their supposed abrupt end. Join us as we navigate through the turbulent landscape of Tudor England and unearth the enduring legacy of its monastic past.

    Learn more about Professor James Clark

    https://experts.exeter.ac.uk/22861-james-clark

    Find out more about your host at https://www.nataliegrueninger.com

    Buy Talking Tudors merchandise at https://talkingtudors.threadless.com/

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    1 hr and 21 mins
  • Episode 286 - Unearthing the Untold Stories of Irish Women Religious with Dr Bronagh Ann McShane
    Mar 28 2025

    Welcome to another episode of Talking Tudors, hosted by Natalie Grueninger. In this episode, we explore the profound journeys of Irish women religious during the turmoil of the 16th and 17th centuries with Dr. Bronagh McShane, a distinguished historian and research fellow at Trinity College, Dublin.

    Dr. McShane sheds light on the lives of Irish nuns who navigated suppression, exile, and reintegration during times of intense religious and political upheaval. Discover how these remarkable women preserved their religious identities, built transnational networks, and contributed significantly to the Catholic Reformation in Europe.

    We delve into the challenges and resilience of these women as they faced societal pressures, navigated clandestine communities, and fostered education within their ranks. Join us as we uncover the indelible mark that Irish nuns left on history and their enduring legacy in shaping faith and community amidst adversity.

    Dr McShane is Research Fellow in History on the VOICES project at Trinity College Dublin.

    https://voicesproject.ie/

    Follow Dr Bronagh Ann McShane on Bluesky

    https://bsky.app/profile/bamcshane.bsky.social

    Find out more about your host at https://www.nataliegrueninger.com

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    47 mins
  • Episode 285 - Sexuality and Sodomy Laws in Early Modern England with Jack Beesley
    Mar 21 2025

    Join host Natalie Grueninger in this captivating episode of 'Talking Tudors' as she delves into the complexities of early modern sexuality and sodomy legislation in early modern England. Special guest Jack Beesley, a doctoral candidate specialising in this field, sheds light on how medieval and early modern people perceived same-sex relationships, the development of sodomy laws, and their implications on society.

    The discussion also explores the controversial historical rumours surrounding George Boleyn's sexuality, questioning their historical accuracy and examining the language used in primary sources of the period. Moreover, Jack outlines significant shifts in public attitudes towards 'sodomy', highlighting pivotal moments such as the English Reformation and the societal changes under King William III.

    Tune in for a profound examination of how societal views on sexuality have evolved, its impact on historical figures, and how these changes continue to shape conversations today.

    Follow Jack Beesley on X

    https://x.com/Jack_E_Beesley

    Follow Jack on Bluesky

    https://bsky.app/profile/jackbeesley.bsky.social

    Find out more about your host at https://www.nataliegrueninger.com

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    45 mins
  • Episode 284 - The Glass Revolution: How Transparent Windows Shaped Tudor England with Dr Allen Loomis
    Mar 14 2025

    Welcome to another episode of Talking Tudors! Join host Natalie Grueninger as she delves into a fascinating conversation with Dr. Alan Loomis on the evolution of transparent glass windows in early modern England. Discover how this novel feature transitioned from a luxury for the elite to a common household element by the end of the 17th century, transforming domestic spaces and influencing interactions.

    Dr. Loomis shares intriguing insights into the role these windows played in Elizabethan drama and their lasting cultural significance. Listen as he uncovers the societal shifts and dramatic tensions associated with transparent glass, while also exploring personal stories and historic events linked with glass windows of that era. Plus, hear an exciting account of William Shakespeare's use of bay windows as a status symbol.

    Whether you're a history enthusiast intrigued by the Tudor period or a fan of early modern drama, this episode promises engrossing tales of architectural innovation and societal change. Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion!

    Follow Dr Loomis on Instagram

    https://www.instagram.com/allenloomis

    Find out more about your host at https://www.nataliegrueninger.com

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    25 mins
  • Episode 283 - Exploring the Monstrous in Tudor Times with Dr Surekha Davies
    Mar 5 2025

    Welcome to another episode of Talking Tudors, where host Natalie Grueninger dives into the intriguing world of Tudor history with Dr Surekha Davies, a historian of science, art, and ideas. In this episode, Dr. Davies shares insights from her latest book, 'Humans: A Monstrous History', exploring how societies have historically defined the concepts of human and monstrosity. Discover the unique perceptions of atypical individuals and groups during the Tudor period, the influence of geography on these perceptions, and how women were often monstrified in that era.

    Through lively discussions, learn about infamous Tudor figures, myths, and the impact of 16th-century exploration on European understanding of the world. This episode also delves into the history of map-making and the depiction of human difference in geographical terms over centuries. Whether you're a Tudor history enthusiast or newly intrigued by the dynasty's complex narratives, this conversation offers a captivating blend of history, science, and art.

    Visit Dr Davies' official website

    https://www.surekhadavies.org/

    Find out more about your host at https://www.nataliegrueninger.com

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    43 mins
  • Episode 282 - William Camden's History of Elizabeth I's Reign: New Discoveries with Helena Rutkowska
    Feb 21 2025

    Welcome to another enthralling episode of Talking Tudors, where host Natalie Grueninger explores the fascinating research of Helena Rutkowska into William Camden's annals - the first complete history of Elizabeth I's reign. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of Tudor historiography, revealing newly uncovered manuscript details thanks to enhanced imaging techniques. Helena shares her insights on the editing challenges faced by Camden, collaborations involved, and how this impacts our understanding of Elizabethan history.

    Don't miss this captivating discussion that unveils parts of Tudor history lost for 400 years, and consider joining our upcoming event "The Making of a Queen" to explore even more transformative historical narratives.

    Follow Helena on X

    https://x.com/helenaheritage

    Find out more about your host at https://www.nataliegrueninger.com

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    The Making of a Queen: Anne Boleyn 1501-1522

    https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/the-making-of-a-queen-anne-boleyn-1501-1522-tickets-1099348955319?aff=ebdsoporgprofile&keep_tld=1

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    50 mins
  • Episode 281 - Elizabeth I & Robert Dudley: A Timeless Bond with Corina Apostu
    Feb 13 2025

    Welcome back to another exciting episode of 'Talking Tudors' with Natalie Grueninger. Join us as we delve into the captivating world of 16th-century England to explore the enduring and complex relationship between Elizabeth I and Robert Dudley. Discover how their bond developed against the backdrop of political intrigue and personal trials, from their early years at court to Dudley's pivotal role during the Spanish Armada.

    This episode also highlights the tumultuous emotions and fascinating events at Kenilworth in 1575, Dudley's secret marriage to Lettice Knollys, and the aftermath of his untimely death. With insights from historian Corina Apostu, gain a fresh perspective on this unique and timeless connection that shaped the Tudor era.

    Don't miss this immersive journey into the passionate and perilous world of the Tudor court, as we uncover the heartbeat of one of history's most iconic partnerships.

    Visit Corina Apostu's blog

    https://exploringelizabethanhistory.com/

    Find out more about your host at https://www.nataliegrueninger.com

    Buy Talking Tudors merchandise at https://talkingtudors.threadless.com/

    Support Talking Tudors on Patreon

    The Making of a Queen: Anne Boleyn 1501-1522

    https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/the-making-of-a-queen-anne-boleyn-1501-1522-tickets-1099348955319?aff=ebdsoporgprofile&keep_tld=1

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    1 hr and 29 mins