Episodes

  • In this episode of Talking Tudors, host Natalie Grueninger delves into the fascinating ways Elizabeth I publicly honoured her mother, Anne Boleyn, despite the turbulent history surrounding her execution. Joined by Dr. Owen Emerson, a social and cultural historian, the discussion reveals surprising insights into Elizabeth's reign and her efforts to restore Anne's legacy.

    The conversation begins with Elizabeth's coronation and how she subtly yet powerfully acknowledged her mother's significance. Natalie and Owen explore an extraordinary document—an Act of Parliament—that reinstated Anne as a legitimate queen, shedding light on Elizabeth's strategic approach to affirm her own legitimacy.

    Listeners will discover the symbolism and emblems that Elizabeth adopted, linking her reign to Anne Boleyn, and how these emblems permeated Elizabethan court culture. The episode also debunks the myth that Henry VIII destroyed all traces of Anne, showcasing surviving artefacts and portraits that celebrate her memory.

    Join Natalie and Owen as they uncover the rich tapestry of historical evidence that highlights the enduring connection between Elizabeth I and her mother, Anne Boleyn, challenging the narrative that their relationship was kept in the shadows.

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

    Visit Dr Emmerson's official website at https://drowenemmerson.com

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  • Join host Natalie Grueninger on this captivating episode of Talking Tudors as she delves into the intriguing history of Katherine of Aragon's tomb at Peterborough Cathedral with special guest Charlotte McCrory. Charlotte, a passionate historian and PhD candidate, shares her research on the tombs of royal women and how they project dynastic and personal memory over time.

    Explore the fascinating journey of Catherine's tomb, from its original creation to its destruction during the English Civil War, and its eventual restoration in the 19th century. Discover the significance of the tomb's location, the heraldry surrounding it, and how contemporary values have influenced its presentation and Katherine's legacy.

    Immerse yourself in the story of a queen who continues to captivate historians and enthusiasts alike. Whether you're a seasoned Tudor history lover or new to the subject, this episode offers valuable insights into the life and memory of Katherine of Aragon.

    Follow Charlotte McCrory on X

    https://x.com/CharlotteVic18

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  • Join host Natalie Grueninger in this episode of Talking Tudors as she explores the unique 1502 royal progress of Henry VII and Elizabeth of York with guest Sarah Morris, also known as The Tudor Travel Guide. This journey, unlike any other, was not about pomp and ceremony but rather a personal and intimate voyage through England and Wales.

    Discover the historical context surrounding this progress, marked by personal losses and political challenges, and learn how this journey served as a path to healing for the Tudor monarchs. Sarah delves into the sources used to reconstruct the itinerary, offering insights into the places visited, including Woodstock, Raglan Castle, and the wool-rich Cotswold towns.

    The episode provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the royal couple, the people who accompanied them, and the hosts who welcomed them. Listen to the stories of the people they met and the places they stayed, painting a vivid picture of Tudor life away from the capital.

    Link to progress map:

    https://thetudortravelguide.com/the-1502-progress-of-henry-vii-elizabeth-of-york/

    Visit Sarah Morris' official website:

    https://thetudortravelguide.com/

    Visit Simply Tudor Tours:

    https://simplytudortours.com/

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

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  • Join Natalie Grueninger as she welcomes back Dr. Joanne Paul to the Talking Tudors podcast. In this episode, they delve into the remarkable life and work of Anne Dowriche, (née Edgecombe), an often-overlooked Elizabethan poet and writer. Discover how Dowriche, a clergy wife from a country gentry background, broke barriers by publishing an epic poem, The French Historie, in 1589, a time when female authorship was rare.

    Dr. Paul shares her insights into Dowriche's influences, from classical texts to the political climate of the late 16th century, including the turbulent religious conflicts in France and England. Explore how Dowriche's work reflects the complex intersections of religion, politics, and literature during the Tudor era, and learn about the hidden networks that might have supported her groundbreaking publication.

    Listen in as Dr. Paul discusses her modern edition of Dowriche's text, making this fascinating work accessible to contemporary readers. Whether you're a student, scholar, or history enthusiast, this episode offers a captivating exploration of a pioneering woman's contribution to Tudor history and literature.

    Visit Dr Paul's website

    https://joannepaul.com/

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

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  • Welcome to another captivating episode of "Talking Tudors." This week, host Natalie Grueninger sits down with Dr. Amy Jeffs to explore her latest book, 'Saints, A New Legendary of Heroes, Humans and Magic.' Dr. Jeffs, an accomplished author, artist, and medievalist, takes us on a journey through the rich tapestry of saints' legends that shaped medieval Christian Europe.

    Discover the fascinating roles saints played in the medieval world, their impact on art, literature, and daily life, and how these stories offer us a window into the medieval mind. From the humorous tales of St. Christopher to the dramatic martyrdoms of St. Catherine, this episode is a treasure trove of historical insights and enchanting narratives.

    Don't miss out on the intriguing discussion about the Reformation's impact on the cult of saints and how these age-old legends continue to inspire and inform us today. Whether you're a history buff or a lover of myth and folklore, this episode promises to be an enlightening experience.

    Follow Dr Jeff's on Instagram

    https://www.instagram.com/amyjeffs_author/?hl=en

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    Join 'A Bookish Weekend with the Tudors'!

    https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/a-bookish-weekend-with-the-tudors-tickets-936941385907

  • Welcome to another captivating episode of Talking Tudors! I'm your host, Natalie Grueninger. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Darren Freebury-Jones about his fascinating new book, Shakespeare's Borrowed Feathers. Darren shares his insights on Shakespeare's interactions with contemporary playwrights and how these relationships influenced his work.

    We also dive into the vibrant world of 16th-century London, exploring the bustling city that inspired so many legendary plays. Darren discusses the collaborative nature of playwriting during this period, the pressures of theatrical production, and the dynamic interplay between Shakespeare and his peers.

    Join us as we uncover the lesser-known influences that shaped the works of the world's greatest playwright. Don't miss this enlightening discussion!

    Visit Dr Freebury-Jones' website

    https://darrenfj.wordpress.com/

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

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    Join 'A Bookish Weekend with the Tudors'!

    https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/a-bookish-weekend-with-the-tudors-tickets-936941385907

  • Join host Natalie Grueninger in this captivating episode of "Talking Tudors" as she welcomes back historian and author Tony Riches. Dive into the life of Frances Walsingham, the daughter of Queen Elizabeth's spymaster, Sir Francis Walsingham. Discover the trials and triumphs of Frances's life, from her upbringing in a politically charged household to her marriages with Philip Sidney and Robert Devereux.

    Tony Riches shares his extensive research and insights into Frances's fascinating life, highlighting her intellectual prowess, her struggles with love, and her eventual move to Ireland. Learn about the impact of her father's espionage on her life and her surprising conversion to Catholicism. This episode offers a unique glimpse into the lesser-known stories of Tudor women and their enduring legacies.

    Whether you're a Tudor history enthusiast or new to the era, this episode promises a deep and engaging exploration of Frances Walsingham's life and the intricate dynamics of the Tudor court.

    Visit Tony Riches website

    https://www.tonyriches.com/

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

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  • Join host Natalie Grueninger in this fascinating episode of "Talking Tudors" as she delves into the incredible story of Henry Tudor's rise to power. Sponsored by the Gloucester History Festival, this episode features special guest Nathan Amin, author of 'Son of Prophecy'.

    Nathan shares his extensive knowledge of the Tudor dynasty, focusing on Henry VII's unlikely ascent to the throne. Discover the Welsh origins of the Tudors, the significance of the prophetic "Son of Prophecy," and the intricate relationships between the Welsh and the English during the 15th century.

    Learn how Henry's lineage, personal qualities, and strategic marriage to Elizabeth of York played pivotal roles in his survival and success. This episode promises a deep dive into the dramatic and lesser-known aspects of Tudor history, offering fresh perspectives and captivating narratives.

    Visit Nathen Amin's official website.

    https://nathenamin.com/

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

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  • Welcome to another episode of Talking Tudors with your host, Natalie Grueninger. This episode is sponsored by the Gloucester History Festival, where history enthusiasts can enjoy live talks from renowned historians and speakers.

    Natalie welcomes Brett Dolman, curator and historian at Hampton Court Palace, to discuss the newly opened exhibition, The Tudor World in the Wolsey Rooms. Brett shares insights into the exhibition, which showcases rare Tudor paintings, historical artefacts, and provides a deeper look into the lives of ordinary men and women who served at the Tudor court.

    The episode delves into the significance of the Wolsey Rooms, originally built for Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, and explores the rich history and stories of the Tudor period. Brett discusses key exhibits, including portraits of Henry VIII, Catherine of Aragon, and Anne Boleyn, as well as rare paintings depicting Henry's military campaigns and the Field of Cloth of Gold.

    Listeners will also learn about the Tudor connections with the wider world, including trade, cultural exchanges, and the darker aspects of exploitation and colonisation. Brett emphasises the importance of understanding the broader historical context and the impact of the Tudor dynasty on global history.

    This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in Tudor history, offering a fascinating glimpse into one of England's most iconic periods. Join Natalie and Brett as they explore the dazzling and dangerous world of the Tudor court.

    The Tudor World in the Wolsey Rooms

    https://www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace/whats-on/the-tudor-world-in-the-wolsey-rooms/#gs.ct1cte

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

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  • Welcome to another episode of Talking Tudors. I'm your host, Natalie Grueninger, and today, we delve into the extraordinary life of Margaret Tudor with historian and author, Dr. Linda Porter. This episode is sponsored by the Gloucester History Festival, which promises an array of historical insights this September.

    Margaret Tudor, the elder sister of Henry VIII, led a life filled with political intrigue, personal strife, and significant historical impact. Dr. Porter sheds light on her new book, The Thistle and the Rose, The Extraordinary Life of Margaret Tudor, exploring Margaret's marriage to James IV of Scotland, her tumultuous regency, and her enduring legacy.

    Join us as we unravel Margaret's story, from her privileged upbringing in the Tudor court to her strategic marriages and the intricate sibling rivalry with Henry VIII. Discover how Margaret's legacy lives on through her descendants who still sit on the throne of the United Kingdom.

    Don't miss this fascinating discussion that brings to life one of the most overlooked yet pivotal figures of the Tudor dynasty. Tune in to learn more about the vibrant world of 16th-century England and Scotland through the lens of Margaret Tudor's remarkable journey.

    Visit Dr Porter's official website

    https://lindaporter.net/

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

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  • Welcome to another captivating episode of "Talking Tudors" with your host Natalie Grueninger. In this episode, Natalie is joined by historian and broadcaster Gareth Russell to delve into the complex life of Catherine Howard, the fifth wife of Henry VIII. Gareth, an expert in Tudor history and author of the biography 'Young and Damned and Fair', shares his insights on Catherine's early life and her controversial relationships with Henry Mannox, Francis Dereham and Thomas Culpepper.

    From her upbringing in the household of the Dowager Duchess of Norfolk to her tumultuous time at court, this episode sheds light on the lesser-known aspects of Catherine's life, including the myths surrounding her family's ambitions and the intricacies of her romantic entanglements. Tune in to explore the human side of this often misunderstood queen and discover how her personality, decisions, and the actions of those around her led to her tragic downfall.

    Follow Gareth Russell on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_garethrussell

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  • Welcome to another enthralling episode of "Talking Tudors," where host Natalie Grueninger invites you to step back into the vibrant and perilous world of 16th century England. In today's episode, we are delighted to welcome back art historians Emma Rutherford and Elizabeth Goldring, who share the fascinating tale of their recent discovery—a cabinet miniature of Lady Arbella Stuart.

    Join us as Elizabeth and Emma delve into the intricacies of this remarkable find, discussing the portrait's symbolic elements, its connection to the famous Ditchley portrait, and the intriguing spy story that surrounds its creation. Learn about the significance of this miniature in understanding Tudor art and the tumultuous life of Lady Arbella Stuart, a potential heir to the English throne.

    Don't miss this captivating discussion that not only sheds light on Tudor history but also reveals the meticulous detective work involved in uncovering hidden treasures from the past. Tune in to discover how this extraordinary miniature contributes to our understanding of Tudor portraiture and the legacy of Lady Arbella Stuart.

    Learn more about Elizabeth Goldring

    https://www.instagram.com/elizabeth.goldring/

    https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/arts/ren/centrestaff/elizabethgoldring/

    Learn more about Emma Rutherford

    https://www.instagram.com/portrait_miniature/

    https://www.portraitminiature.com/

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

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  • Welcome to another riveting episode of Talking Tudors with your host, Natalie Grueninger. This week, we dive into the "Six Lives" exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery with special guest, Dr. Charlotte Bolland, Senior Curator of Research and 16th Century Collections.

    Dr Bolland takes us on a journey through this groundbreaking exhibition, offering insights into the intricate and diverse media used to portray the lives of the six Tudor queens. From portraits and miniatures to medals, photographs, and even novelty Christmas decorations, the exhibition spans 500 years of history and delves into the court culture of the 16th century.

    Discover the fascinating artefacts on display, including Katherine of Aragon's letter after the Battle of Flodden and Anne Boleyn's book of hours. Dr Bolland also sheds light on the personal and emotional connections these objects provide, giving us a glimpse into the lives of these remarkable women.

    In addition to exploring the historical significance, the episode delves into the role of women from antiquity in shaping the queens' images and how contemporary media continues to reinterpret their stories. From Shakespeare to modern musicals like Six, the influence of these queens endures.

    Join us for an enlightening conversation that uncovers the layers of storytelling and historical imagination that have surrounded the Tudor queens for centuries. Don't miss this chance to step through the veil of time and immerse yourself in the dazzling world of the Tudor court.

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

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  • Welcome to this riveting episode of Talking Tudors, where host Natalie Grueninger is joined by author Annie Garthwaite to delve into her novel, 'The King's Mother'. Annie, who grew up in the northeast of England and has had a successful international business career, shares the fascinating journey of her writing, which includes her debut novel 'Cecily' and the upcoming release of 'The King's Mother'.

    In this episode, Annie discusses the inspiration behind her novels, focusing on the powerful women of the Wars of the Roses. She highlights the often-overlooked roles of Cecily Neville, Margaret of Anjou, Elizabeth Woodville, and Margaret Beaufort. Through engaging storytelling and a captivating reading from her book, Annie reveals the complex lives, struggles, and ambitions of these remarkable women.

    Join us as we explore the historical context, the personal challenges, and the fierce maternal instincts that drove these women to shape the course of English history. Whether you're a history enthusiast or new to the period, this episode promises a deep and enriching look at the untold stories of the women behind the throne.

    Don't miss out on Annie's insightful reflections and her passion for bringing these historical figures to life. Tune in for an episode that bridges the past and the present, offering a fresh perspective on the dynamic and influential women of the 15th century.

    Visit Annie Garthwaite's website

    https://www.anniegarthwaite.com/

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  • Join Natalie Grueninger on this episode of Talking Tudors as she delves into the fascinating world of Henry VIII. This week, Natalie welcomes Professor James Clark from the University of Exeter and Ilona Harris, Director of West Horsley Place, to discuss the historic visit of Henry VIII to West Horsley Place in July 1533.

    Discover the significance of this royal visit that took place during a critical moment in Henry VIII's reign, shortly after his marriage to Anne Boleyn and her subsequent coronation. Learn about the history of the manor house, the lavish banquet that greeted the king, and the hunting expedition that took place. Explore the political and social implications of Henry's visit, and how it served as a strategic move to secure his new era.

    Get a behind-the-scenes look at the extensive research conducted by historians and the immersive events planned at West Horsley Place to celebrate and mark the king's visit. From jousting and falconry displays to interactive family activities and intimate talks, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

    Don't miss this captivating journey back to the Tudor court. For more information and to book tickets for the upcoming events, visit the West Horsley Place website.

    https://www.westhorsleyplace.org/

    As always, Natalie encourages listeners to share their thoughts and join the Talking Tudors community on social media.

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

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    Learn more about Professor Clark here:

    https://arch-history.exeter.ac.uk/history/profile/index.php?web_id=clark

    Check out his latest book!

    https://yalebooks.yale.edu/book/9780300269956/the-dissolution-of-the-monasteries/

    Follow West Horsley Place on X

    https://x.com/WHorsleyPlace

  • Natalie Grueninger speaks with Kate McCaffrey about the Boleyn Apartment at Hever Castle

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    Book your place on '365 Days with Medieval & Renaissance Wonder Women'

    https://onthetudortrail.com/Blog/2024/03/31/365-days-with-medieval-renaissance-wonder-women/

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  • Natalie Grueninger speaks with Dr Estelle Paranque about her latest book, 'Thorns, Lust and Glory: The Betrayal of Anne Boleyn'.

    Follow Dr Paranque on Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/estelleprnq

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    Book your place on '365 Days with Medieval & Renaissance Wonder Women'

    https://onthetudortrail.com/Blog/2024/03/31/365-days-with-medieval-renaissance-wonder-women/

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  • Natalie Grueninger speaks with Justine Brown about James II and the Tudors.

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    https://x.com/brown_bookshelf

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    Book your place on '365 Days with Medieval & Renaissance Wonder Women'

    https://onthetudortrail.com/Blog/2024/03/31/365-days-with-medieval-renaissance-wonder-women/

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  • Natalie Grueninger speaks with Thomas Lockley about his latest book, 'A Gentleman from Japan: The Untold Story of an Incredible Journey from Asia to Queen Elizabeth's Court'.

    Follow Thomas Lockley's Linktree:

    https://linktr.ee/ThomasLockleyAuthor?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=43c16653-709a-4adb-becd-dc1a5664fc90

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

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    Book your place on '365 Days with Medieval & Renaissance Wonder Women'

    https://onthetudortrail.com/Blog/2024/03/31/365-days-with-medieval-renaissance-wonder-women/

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  • Natalie Grueninger speaks with Rosamund Gravelle about her debut play, Three Queens.

    Visit Rosamund's official website:

    https://www.rosamundgravelle.com/

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

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

    Book your place on '365 Days with Medieval & Renaissance Wonder Women'

    https://onthetudortrail.com/Blog/2024/03/31/365-days-with-medieval-renaissance-wonder-women/

    Support Talking Tudors on Patreon