Podcast Summary: "This is History: A Dynasty to Die For"
Episode: Season 6 | BONUS: How Did They Know the Time in the Middle Ages?
Release Date: December 31, 2024
Host: Dan Jones, Historian

Introduction

In this special bonus episode of Season 6 of "This is History: A Dynasty to Die For", historian Dan Jones takes a brief hiatus from the main narrative to engage directly with his audience through a lively Q&A session. Recorded during the Christmas break, this episode delves into intriguing questions from listeners, offering deeper insights into the complexities of medieval life, the Plantagenet dynasty, and the creative liberties taken in historical fiction.

New Year's Q&A: Celebrations and Resolutions

Before diving into the audience questions, Dan and his co-host share their New Year's traditions and resolutions, setting a personable tone for the episode.

• Dan's New Year's Plans:
  "I typically like to let off fireworks at any socially acceptable opportunity. And there's a particular type of firework I like to let off. It's a 200 shot barrage called Satanic Desecration. Oh, my God. It's quite expensive..." [(00:55)]
  Dan humorously describes his preference for a dramatic fireworks display, despite his early bedtime plans.

• Co-host's New Year's Eve:
  "New Year's Eve is going to a cabin in the woods with a few friends and feels like the setup for a horror movie." [(01:58)]
  The co-host contrasts Dan's explosive celebration with a more subdued, albeit spooky, gathering in the wilderness.

• Resolutions:
  Dan adopts the classic resolution to ""just carry on" [(02:11)], reflecting a calm and steady approach to the upcoming year.

Listener Questions

1. Understanding Medieval Dating Systems

Question from Nathan, Tennessee:
"I often hear specific dates mentioned in historical contexts, like October 13, 1270. How were people in the Middle Ages aware of the current date? What dating systems did they use?" [(02:22)]

Dan's Comprehensive Answer:
Dan delves into the intricate and varied dating systems of the Middle Ages, highlighting the absence of a standardized calendar system. He explains multiple concurrent systems:

• Religious-Based Dating:

  • Christmas Year: The year started around Christmas.
  • Annunciation (Lady Day): Marked on March 25th.
  • Easter: Dates fluctuated based on lunar cycles.

• Regnal Year:
  System based on the reign of monarchs, e.g., "the third year of Edward III’s reign" [(04:44)].

• Exchequer Year (Michaelmas):
  Began on September 29th, the feast of St. Michael [(04:44)].

• Pontifical Year:
  Based on the Papal succession.

• Notarial System:
  Divided months into two halves, with unique dating conventions for each half [(05:50)].

Dan emphasizes the complexity and regional variations, noting, "It's very complicated to us. I'm not saying it wasn't complicated to them..." [(06:37)]. He contrasts these medieval systems with today's standardized global timekeeping, making the point that modern date reckoning is a remarkable simplification.

2. Monarch Naming Conventions

Question from Chris, USA:
"I've noticed some monarch names don't carry forward beyond certain numbers, like no second John. Is there an unwritten rule on what names can be used?" [(08:55)]

Dan's Insightful Response:
Dan clarifies that there are no formal rules governing monarch naming but highlights traditional conventions and the influence of historical reputations:

• Conventions Over Rules:
  "I don't think there's a written rule, certainly... There are sort of conventions." [(09:17)]

• Influence of Past Monarchs:
  Negative reputations can lead to the temporary fall out of favor for certain names. For instance, King John’s poor reputation contributed to the scarcity of subsequent monarchs named John [(10:05)].

• Almost-Royal Names:
  He mentions names that could have been used but weren't, such as Alfonso or Thomas, providing hypothetical scenarios where different kings might have ascended the throne [(11:12)].

Dan also touches upon fictional scenarios, like "Anne Boleyn axe murderer," showcasing his playful approach to historical what-ifs [(21:05)].

3. The Myth of Spiral Staircases in Castles

Question from Liz:
"You mentioned that the directional nature of spiral staircases in castles doesn't grant a fighting advantage. However, I've found information about Castle Caius having left-handed staircases. What are your thoughts on this?" [(13:14)]

Dan's Analytical Take:
Dan examines the practicality of left-handed versus right-handed staircases in medieval combat, ultimately debunking the myth:

• Fighting on Staircases:
  "If you're fighting on the staircases, your castle has fallen." [(13:52)]
  He asserts that vertical advantage in combat is negligible if attackers have already breached the castle.

• Handedness in Sword Fighting:
  Comparing to modern sports, Dan discusses how being left-handed offers tactical advantages in tennis but concludes that in sword fighting, handedness doesn't significantly impact effectiveness [(15:00)].

• Conclusion on Spiral Staircases:
  Dan maintains that the direction of staircase spirals doesn't provide a meaningful combat advantage, suggesting the myth lacks substantial historical evidence [(15:44)].

4. Historical Accuracy in "Essex Dogs" Trilogy

Question from Chris:
"I'm reading your 'Essex Dogs' trilogy and curious about the historical accuracy of your characters. For example, is the young Black Prince as bratty as depicted?" [(17:04)]

Dan's Thoughtful Explanation:
Dan discusses his approach to blending historical facts with creative fiction:

• Character Development:
  He admits to infusing his characters with personalities that aren’t extensively documented, allowing for creative freedom. For instance, the bratty nature of the Black Prince is a fictional embellishment to add depth and storytelling flair [(17:27)].

• Historical Flexibility:
  "The Black Prince... started morphing more and more into this really weird little brat," he explains, emphasizing that the lack of detailed historical records permits such characterizations [(18:00)].

• Balancing Fact and Fiction:
  While maintaining historical authenticity where possible, Dan uses creative licenses to enrich the narrative, ensuring that his characters remain engaging and relatable without straying from known facts [(19:51)].

5. Top Plantagenet Sites to Visit in France

Question from Nathan:
"What are your top five must-see Plantagenet-related sites in France?" [(21:33)]

Dan's Enthusiastic Recommendations:
Dan offers a curated list of historical sites associated with the Plantagenet dynasty, blending personal enthusiasm with historical significance:

1. Château Gaillard:
   "Ruins on the Seine halfway between Paris and Rouen. Richard the Lionheart's big castle." [(22:05)]
   Noted for its formidable architecture and association with Richard the Lionheart.

2. Rouen Cathedral:
   "Richard the Lionheart's heart is buried here." [(22:07)]
   A site of both architectural beauty and historical lore.

3. Chinon Castle:
   "HQ of Henry II is also quite well presented on the river Vienne." [(22:07)]
   Central to the administration of Henry II’s reign.

4. Fontevrault Abbey:
   "See the tomb effigies of Henry II, Eleanor of Aquitaine, Richard, and Isabella of Angouleme." [(22:05)]
   A significant burial site for Plantagenet royalty.

5. Angers Castle:
   "Eleanor of Aquitaine was briefly imprisoned here. It houses incredible apocalypse tapestries." [(22:07)]
   Offers rich historical context and stunning artistic displays.

Bonus Recommendation:

• Normandy Beaches, St. Baloûg, Cottingham Peninsula:
  "Reflect on what it was like when Edward III's flotilla came across in 1346." [(22:07)]
  A site of both medieval and World War II historical significance.

Dan humorously adds, "Can fall into the sand and bloody your nose and cosplay Edward III if you so well," suggesting visitors embrace the historical ambiance [(22:08)].

Conclusion

This bonus episode of "This is History: A Dynasty to Die For" offers a delightful blend of scholarly insights and engaging anecdotes, enriched by listener interactions. Dan Jones adeptly navigates complex historical topics, making medieval history accessible and entertaining. From unraveling the convoluted dating systems of the Middle Ages to exploring the personal touches in historical fiction, Dan provides a comprehensive and enjoyable exploration for both history enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.

For more engaging historical content, listeners are encouraged to subscribe to ThisIsHistory Plus and explore additional episodes available on Apple Podcasts or the official website.

Notable Quotes:

• "It's very complicated to us. I'm not saying it wasn't complicated to them." [(06:37)]
• "If you're fighting on the staircases, your castle has fallen." [(13:52)]
• "I wanted to write a sort of horror type novel called Anne Boleyn axe murderer..." [(20:27)]
• "Your data is yours. Keep it that way." [ProtonMail Advertisement, skipped per instructions]

This episode underscores the enduring fascination with the Plantagenet dynasty and the intricate tapestry of medieval life, all while showcasing Dan Jones's ability to make history both informative and entertaining.