Gone Medieval: How to Survive the 15th Century
Episode Summary
Release Date: August 8, 2025
Host: Matt Lewis
Co-host: Dr. Eleanor Janiga

Introduction to the 15th Century in England

In the episode titled "How to Survive the 15th Century," hosts Matt Lewis and Dr. Eleanor Janiga delve into the complexities of 15th-century England, exploring its political turmoil, social upheavals, and significant historical figures. They set the stage by emphasizing the century's tumultuous nature, marked by power struggles and transformative events that shaped England's destiny.

The Shadow of the Black Death

The conversation begins with an exploration of the lingering effects of the Black Death, which devastated Europe in the 14th century. Although the 15th century did not experience a pandemic of the same magnitude, the collective memory and fear of such an event persisted among the populace.

• Dr. Janiga highlights:
  “People are living in the shadow and the aftermath of the Black Death” (06:00), emphasizing the societal impact and the psychological scars left by the pandemic.

Despite the absence of a major pandemic, recurrent outbreaks and the fear of another plague influenced daily life and governance, fostering a pervasive anxiety about the fragility of existence.

Religious Tensions and the Rise of Lollardy

The hosts discuss the burgeoning religious reform movements, particularly focusing on Lollardy in England. This period saw increasing questioning of the Church's authority, laying the groundwork for future religious upheavals like the Reformation.

• Matt Lewis notes:
  “Lollardry is so important as a religious movement in England at this point in time” (09:41), underlining its significance in challenging the established religious order.

Early attempts by Henry IV and Henry V to suppress Lollards through harsh measures, including executions, set a dangerous precedent for royal authority over religious dissent.

Monarchical Instability: The Deposition of Richard II

A pivotal moment discussed is the deposition of Richard II by Henry IV in 1399, a decision that destabilized the traditional succession and set the stage for future conflicts.

• Dr. Janiga reflects:
  “What it does make inevitable... is questioning that, questioning the idea that kings are kings and there's nothing that one can do about them” (13:59), highlighting how this act undermined the perceived invincibility of the monarchy.

This act not only challenged the divine right of kings but also emboldened factions to consider deposition as a viable political tool, contributing to the eventual Wars of the Roses.

Reign of Henry IV: Challenges and Rebellions

Henry IV inherited a kingdom rife with rebellions and questions about his legitimacy. His reign was marked by constant struggles to maintain authority amidst growing dissent.

• Matt Lewis observes:
  “If you want to survive the beginning of the 15th century, maybe don't out yourself as a Lollard is a good start” (10:34), suggesting the dangers of religious affiliation during this period.

Henry IV's harsh crackdown on heresy, including the execution of Archbishop Scrope, reinforced his position as a staunch defender of the Church but exacerbated tensions with reformist groups.

Henry V: The Ideal and Its Discontents

Henry V emerges as a complex figure, often romanticized in literature but critically examined by the hosts for his realpolitik and military endeavors.

• Dr. Janiga acknowledges:
  “I think Henry V is the most capable of the kings” (64:12), appreciating his tenacity and leadership skills.

Despite his effectiveness, Henry V's untimely death in 1422 left his ambitious plans, particularly the continuation of the Hundred Years' War, unrealized. His legacy is debated, balancing his military prowess against the consequences of his campaigns.

The Hundred Years' War and Its Impact

The Hundred Years' War with France is scrutinized for its role in unifying English identity and draining the kingdom's resources. Henry V's campaigns initially galvanized national support but ultimately strained the kingdom's stability.

• Matt Lewis questions:
  “Was restarting the war in France a good idea?” (25:53), probing the long-term viability of England's foreign policies.

The war fostered a sense of national purpose but also set the stage for internal conflicts by diverting attention from domestic issues and exacerbating economic strains.

The Emergence of the Wars of the Roses

As the century progressed, England spiraled into the Wars of the Roses, a series of dynastic conflicts that epitomized the era's instability.

• Dr. Janiga summarizes:
  “The wars of the Roses... was a mess” (49:29), capturing the chaotic nature of these civil wars.

Frequent changes in leadership, with kings like Henry VI being deposed and restored multiple times, underscored the fragility of the Lancastrian dynasty and the volatility of royal authority.

Notable Women of the 15th Century

The episode highlights influential women who left their mark on the century, such as Joan of Arc, Christine de Pizan, and Marjorie Kemp. These figures exemplify the evolving roles of women in society and their impact on political and cultural landscapes.

• Dr. Janiga praises Joan of Arc:
  “Joan... shows that what we are starting to see in the Hundred Years War is more of a French identity” (40:38), acknowledging her role in fostering national unity.

Additionally, the rise of women authors and mystics signifies a shift towards greater intellectual and spiritual agency, challenging traditional gender roles.

The Rise of Parliament and Institutional Changes

The instability of the 15th century catalyzed the growth of parliamentary power, as governing bodies sought to mediate disputes and assert authority over the monarchy.

• Matt Lewis asserts:
  “This increases the power and the authority of Parliament... moving towards a parliamentary democracy” (62:40), tracing the roots of modern governance structures.

The Wars of the Roses accelerated these institutional developments, laying the groundwork for the eventual decline of absolute monarchical rule and the rise of representative governance.

Conclusion: Evolution of England by Century's End

By the end of the 15th century, England had undergone significant transformations. The relentless power struggles and societal changes forced the country to adapt, ultimately leading to more robust governmental institutions and a shift in power dynamics.

• Dr. Janiga concludes:
  “It's a pretty big difference” (61:34), referring to the substantial changes from the century's start to its close.

The episode underscores that surviving the 15th century required adaptability, strategic alliances, and an understanding of the evolving political and social landscapes.

Key Quotes

• Dr. Eleanor Janiga (06:00):
  “People are living in the shadow and the aftermath of the Black Death.”

• Matt Lewis (10:34):
  “If you want to survive the beginning of the 15th century, maybe don't out yourself as a Lollard is a good start.”

• Dr. Janiga (13:59):
  “What it does make inevitable... is questioning that, questioning the idea that kings are kings and there's nothing that one can do about them.”

• Dr. Janiga (40:38):
  “Joan... shows that what we are starting to see in the Hundred Years War is more of a French identity.”

• Matt Lewis (62:40):
  “This increases the power and the authority of Parliament... moving towards a parliamentary democracy.”

Final Thoughts

"How to Survive the 15th Century" offers a comprehensive exploration of a pivotal era in English history, blending scholarly insights with engaging dialogue. By examining the intricate interplay of political power, social change, and individual agency, Matt Lewis and Dr. Eleanor Janiga provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of how England navigated one of its most challenging centuries.

For those interested in delving deeper, the episode is part of the "Gone Medieval" series by History Hit, which offers further discussions on topics like the Hundred Years' War, the Wars of the Roses, and notable historical figures from the medieval period.