Episode 542: Elizabeth I’s Sorcerer: Angels and Demons in Renaissance Europe

Release Date: February 24, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Rest Is History, hosts Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland delve into the enigmatic life of John Dee, the renowned court magician of Elizabeth I. Through a rich narrative, they explore Dee's intricate blend of scientific prowess and occult practices, his influence on the formation of the British Empire, and the dramatic twists that led to his eventual downfall.

Early Life and Education of John Dee

John Dee was born in the summer of 1527 in London, of Welsh descent, to Roland Dee, a successful textile merchant who served as a gentleman sewer to Henry VII ([18:08]). Dee's upbringing in a prosperous household allowed him to receive a thorough education, first at a grammar school and then at Cambridge University. At St. John's College, Cambridge, Dee was exposed to a diverse range of religious and philosophical ideas, fostering his ecumenical nature—a rare trait in the tumultuous religious landscape of 16th-century England ([20:03] Dominic Sandbrook).

Dee’s Multifaceted Scholarship

Dee was a polymath, excelling in mathematics, astronomy, and philosophy while simultaneously delving into alchemy and astrology. His innovative spirit was evident during his time at Trinity College, where he staged an elaborate Aristophanes comedy, showcasing his mastery of stagecraft and earning him a reputation as a conjurer ([21:39] Tom Holland). This blend of scientific inquiry and mystical exploration positioned Dee as a unique figure capable of bridging the gap between emerging scientific thought and age-old occult traditions.

Political Landscape and Dee’s Survival Strategy

Navigating the volatile political shifts between Protestantism and Catholicism under Henry VIII, Edward VI, Mary I, and Elizabeth I, Dee adeptly maneuvered to maintain his standing. When Mary I’s Catholic reign threatened his prospects, Dee converted to Catholicism swiftly, securing favor with Edmund Bonner, the Catholic Bishop of London. This strategic conversion allowed Dee to prosper under Mary while laying the groundwork for his continued influence under Elizabeth I ([28:30] Tom Holland).

Patronage of Exploration and the British Empire

Dee’s visionary ideas extended beyond the occult into the realm of exploration and empire-building. He is credited with coining the phrase "British Empire," advocating for overseas exploration and colonization. His extensive library, enriched with cutting-edge maps from cartographers like Gerard Mercator, theoretical works on navigation, and antiquarian texts on legends such as Prince Madoc, provided intellectual ammunition for backing English ventures into the New World ([39:05] Dominic Sandbrook).

Dee’s Occult Pursuits and Relationship with Edward Kelly

Dee's deepest obsession was unlocking the "language of the angels," a divine language he believed held the secrets to the universe. To achieve this, he partnered with Edward Kelly, a talented scryer capable of channeling supernatural communications. Their collaboration began earnestly on March 10, 1582, when Kelly purportedly communicated with an angel named Uriel through Dee’s Aztec obsidian mirror ([48:58] Tom Holland). This partnership promised unprecedented insights but soon spiraled into chaos.

The Collapse: Disasters and Downfall

The alliance between Dee and Kelly deteriorated as Kelly's growing interest in alchemy clashed with Dee's mystical pursuits. Their attempts to support Rudolph II, Emperor of Prague, led to diplomatic disasters and personal betrayals. The climax occurred in 1587 when Kelly, influenced by malevolent apparitions, coerced Dee into compromising his moral and marital integrity. As a result, Dee’s standing plummeted, culminating in the theft of his extensive library upon his return to England in 1605 ([55:25] Tom Holland).

Legacy and Final Years

Despite his brilliance, Dee's legacy was marred by his associations with witchcraft and necromancy. Elizabeth I, though initially supportive, eventually distanced herself from him, leaving Dee to live his final years in relative obscurity and poverty. His contributions to navigation and empire, however, endure, illustrating the complex interplay between knowledge, power, and belief in Renaissance Europe ([62:33] Tom Holland).

Notable Quotes

• Dominic Sandbrook [00:54]: “On Sunday 30th March, 2025, it's the 44th anniversary of the attempted assassination on Ronald Reagan... we have decided to do a live show together...”

• Tom Holland [17:00]: “... the language of the angels, which he's absolutely obsessed by, isn't he?”

• Tom Holland [22:14]: “... the source of his reputation as a conjurer of wicked and damned spirits.”

• Dominic Sandbrook [34:23]: “What does this mean? Kelly explains, because of course he understands what the angels are saying. He reveals that what Medimi is saying is that he and D should sleep with the other person's wife.”

Conclusion

John Dee’s life encapsulates the Renaissance spirit—undaunted curiosity, a quest for knowledge, and the perilous blur between science and the supernatural. Through Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland’s engaging discussion, listeners gain a nuanced understanding of Dee’s indispensable yet tragic role in shaping Elizabethan England and the early contours of the British Empire.