Podcast Summary: This is History – Season 7, Episode 1: God Save The Kid

Introduction to Season 7

In the premiere episode of Season 7 titled "God Save The Kid," host Dan Jones delves into the tumultuous period of the Plantagenet dynasty, focusing on the precarious reign of King Richard II and his rivalry with Henry Bolingbroke. This season promises a gripping narrative filled with power struggles, familial discord, and the intricate dynamics that threaten to unravel one of Europe's most formidable royal families.

Historical Context: The Twilight of Edward III's Reign

The episode opens with a vivid portrayal of Edward III, the once-mighty Plantagenet king whose illustrious reign brought stability and military triumphs. However, by April 1376, Edward's health is in severe decline. At 63 years old—a venerable age for the 14th century—he is depicted as a frail and suffering monarch, grappling with apostomy treatments for what is likely a cancerous tumor in his bowel. Historian Dan Jones remarks, "Edward III's once glorious reign has run out of road," highlighting the king's diminished capacity and the kingdom's growing instability ([00:05]).

Edward's physical deterioration is mirrored by political turmoil. The nation is embroiled in a protracted war with France, initiated by Edward four decades earlier, which has drained the kingdom's resources and fomented public discontent. The severity of the crisis is underscored during a session of the Painted Chamber, where the aging king's authority is increasingly challenged.

The Plantagenet Family: Succession and Strife

With Edward III incapacitated, succession becomes a critical issue. The king's son, the Black Prince, known for his valor, is also gravely ill and succumbing to a mysterious disease contracted on campaign. In a desperate bid to secure the dynasty's future, Edward's ministers propose a bold move: elevating his nine-year-old grandson, Richard of Bordeaux, to the forefront of leadership.

Richard's introduction to the political arena is met with enthusiastic support from Parliament, which lauds him as the "Saviour of the world." However, Dan Jones offers a foreshadowing of Richard's troubled reign: "He's a very naughty boy... vain, vindictive, shallow, vicious, thin-skinned and paranoid" ([12:45]). This transformation sets the stage for the central conflict of the season—Richard's eventual clash with his cousin, Henry Bolingbroke.

Richard of Bordeaux and Henry Bolingbroke: From Frenemies to Rivals

Richard of Bordeaux is portrayed as a child prince thrust into power, admired excessively by his advisors and the populace. Despite his privileged upbringing, including a comprehensive education and training under loyal tutor Sir Simon Burley, Richard lacks strong male role models. His father, the Black Prince, dies before Richard can form a meaningful relationship, leaving the young prince to navigate his ascent largely unprepared.

In contrast, Henry Bolingbroke, Richard's cousin and the son of the influential John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, is introduced as a capable and well-educated noble. Henry's robust training in martial and intellectual disciplines sets him apart from Richard, who remains oblivious to his own grandfather's legacy as a warrior king. Jones points out, "Henry isn't groomed to be king, but Gaunt makes sure he has a right royal education all the same" ([25:30]).

The relationship between Richard and Henry is complex; they are close in age and both grandsons of Edward III, yet their differing upbringings and personal characteristics sow the seeds of future conflict. As Dan Jones hints, their bond "will be locked in a dance to the death, with fatal consequences for anyone caught in between them" ([30:15]).

The Death of Edward III and Political Upheaval

The climax of the episode narrates the demise of Edward III on June 21, 1376. His death precipitates a grand funeral procession on July 5, showcasing the grandeur of the Plantagenet dynasty but also exposing underlying tensions. Notably absent from the forefront is the young King Richard, who remains secluded, allowing John of Gaunt to assume visible leadership.

John of Gaunt emerges as a pivotal figure, wielding significant influence as the Duke of Lancaster and holding multiple noble titles. Despite his political acumen and ambition, Gaunt faces public disdain and suspicion. Rumors suggest his discontent with a child king and his ulterior motives for seizing the throne, insinuating that he might not hesitate to usurp power if the situation demands ([45:00]).

The Funeral and Its Implications

The royal funeral serves as a microcosm of the Plantagenet family's fracturing unity. As the nation mourns, the absence of Richard from the procession subtly undermines the narrative of a child savior. Instead, John of Gaunt stands prominently, signaling his readiness to assert control. Jones reflects on the public's perception: "If you were Gaunt, wouldn't you be thinking that King John II has a nice ring about it?" ([50:10]).

The episode emphasizes the precariousness of England's political landscape post-Edward III. With the French king captured and England facing internal dissent, the kingdom is on the brink of anarchy—an impending crisis that sets the stage for the ensuing power struggle between Richard and Henry.

Themes and Future Directions

Dan Jones outlines the overarching themes of Season 7, highlighting the fatal rivalry between Richard II and Henry Bolingbroke. He draws parallels to classic tales of enmity, comparing their eventual conflict to legendary duos like Achilles and Hector or Scar and Mufasa. This narrative promises to explore the complexities of leadership, legitimacy, and the personal flaws that can destabilize a kingdom.

Jones also teases future episodes, mentioning a subscriber-only deep dive into the political missteps leading to the current crisis in England. This hints at a detailed exploration of the interplay between personal ambition and political necessity within the Plantagenet dynasty.

Notable Quotes

• Dan Jones: "Edward III's once glorious reign has run out of road." ([08:20])

• Chancellor, Archbishop Simon Sudbury: "This young lad... is the true image and very figure of his father, the Black Prince. He should be held among them and all other lieges of the King with great honour and reverence." ([18:30])

• Dan Jones: "Henry Bolingbroke is born... he's a kid of exactly Richard of Bordeaux's age." ([35:45])

• Dan Jones: "John of Gaunt is a man with well known designs on a crown of some sorts." ([48:50])

Conclusion

Season 7 of "This is History" sets the stage for an epic saga of power, betrayal, and the tragic fall of a dynasty. By focusing on the intricate relationships and the looming rivalry between Richard II and Henry Bolingbroke, Dan Jones promises a compelling examination of how personal vices and political ambitions can reshape the course of history. Listeners are left eagerly anticipating the unfolding drama that will define the legacy of the Plantagenets.

Join the Discussion

Listeners are encouraged to become Royal Favorites on Patreon to engage in exclusive discussions, access bonus content, and participate in competitions. This interactive element promises to deepen the historical exploration and foster a community of history enthusiasts eager to dissect the complexities of the Plantagenet dynasty.

References

• Podcast Episode: "This is History: A Dynasty to Die For," Season 7, Episode 1: God Save The Kid
• Host: Dan Jones
• Release Date: April 29, 2025