History Rage
Gloucester History Festival Special #3 - The King Lives? Debating Edward II's Death with Ian Mortimer
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Episode notes
Prepare to have your historical compass recalibrated as we delve into the shadowy labyrinth of medieval politics and unravel a mystery that has perplexed scholars for centuries. In this electrifying episode of History Rage, we're broadcasting live from the Gloucester History Festival, where host Paul Bavill is joined by the esteemed historian and author, Ian Mortimer, a man whose expertise has time-travelled through the corridors of the past, bringing light to the darkest corners of history.
The King's Survival:
- Ian Mortimer challenges the long-held belief that King Edward II met his gruesome end at Berkeley Castle in 1327, a narrative that has been etched into the stone of history, but perhaps is built on foundations of sand.
- Mortimer, armed with his razor-sharp analysis and relentless pursuit of evidence, slices through the tapestry of deception to reveal a startling alternative history.
The Berkeley Castle Conundrum:
- The traditional tale of Edward II's demise is dissected, exposing the inconsistencies and outright fabrications that have been accepted as fact.
- Mortimer presents a compelling argument that not only questions the king's supposed death but also suggests a life beyond the castle walls, one that history has refused to acknowledge.
The Fieschi Letter and Beyond:
- A deep dive into the Fieschi Letter, an overlooked document that may hold the key to understanding Edward II's fate, suggesting a narrative filled with clandestine imprisonment, daring escapes, and royal subterfuge.
- Ian traces the exiled monarch's journey from the depths of Corfe Castle's dungeon to the intriguing possibility of a secret life under the protection of powerful Italian allies.
The Academic Backlash:
- Ian shares his experiences of challenging the status quo, facing the cold front of academic resistance, and the struggle to have his groundbreaking findings recognized amidst a storm of skepticism.
A Truth Rediscovered:
- This episode is not just a quest for the truth about a medieval monarch; it's an exploration of the very nature of historical understanding and the responsibility of historians to distinguish fact from fiction.
Join us as Ian Mortimer ignites the flames of historical inquiry and dares us to question everything we thought we knew about Edward II. This is not just an episode; it's a call to arms for truth-seekers and history enthusiasts alike.
To dive deeper into Ian Mortimer's work, grab a copy of his latest book, "Medieval Horizons: Why the Middle Ages Matter," or any of his acclaimed Time Traveller's Guides, including the revelatory "Medieval Intrigue."
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