Witch Hunts in Medieval England: The Trial of Walter Langton
In 1301 Walter Langton, Bishop of Coventry and Lichfield, was accused of using sorcery to acquire a large fortune and gain the favour of the king. His lengthy and inconclusive trial shows that accusations of witchcraft made at this time were often motivated by politics rather than fear
The Original King Lear
Most people today know the story of King Lear from Shakespeare’s tragic play. But the original story actually comes from the medieval period, and it actually has a very happy ending.
Pagan Survivals in Medieval Holiday Celebrations
Many of the most signature parts of Christmas in the Middle Ages (and today) actually come from pagan rather than Christian traditions. So, if you want to find out how you can make your Christmas and end of year celebrations just a little bit more pagan, read on!
Telling Stories, Saving Lives: The Sultana Who Saved a Kingdom through her Stories
Scheherazade, the heroine of The Tales of the 1001 Nights, saved her world through stories.
What Happened to the Corpses on the Medieval Battlefield?
Medieval literature often depicts knights slaughtering their foes in brutal battles. The focus is usually on the glory of the knights and of the battle. But what happened to the bodies after the battle was done?
The Story of Merlin and the Demons who made him
In the medieval tradition, Merlin was created by demons to bring about the downfall of Christianity.
The Medieval Cinderella
It takes place within a community of rural “cave-dwellers,” features magical fish bones, presents a prince who is both violent and greedy, and stars a heroine who is much more disobedient and ambitious than the European version.
How the Black Death Improved the Lives of Medieval Peasants
After the ravages of the plague were finished, medieval peasants found their lives and working conditions improved.