'tis but a scratch: fact and fiction about the Middle Ages
Talking about popular conceptions of the Middle Ages and their historical realities. Join Richard Abels to learn about Vikings, knights and chivalry, movies set in the Middle Ages, and much more about the medieval world.
'tis but a scratch: fact and fiction about the Middle Ages
Latest Episodes
The Evolution of Castles and Siege Warfare in medieval Britain, part 1 (conversation with Paul Remfry)
This is the first of a two part series on the evolution of castle-building and siege warfare in Britain from the Norman Conquest through the middle of the fifteenth century. My very special guest is Paul Remfry, one of the world’s leading exper...
Medieval Fairs and Modern Renaissance Faires and Festivals (with Dr. Larissa "Kat" Tracy)
Each year about three million Americans visit Medieval and Renaissance Faires and Festivals. Among the largest is the annual Maryland Renaissance Festival, about a half hour drive from my home. In this episode I talk with a veteran of this podc...
The Crusades and the Wars for the Middle East (with Prof. Nicholas Morton)
In this episode Dr. Nicholas Morton returns to discuss his newest book, The Crusader Storm: A Global History of the Wars of the Middle East (Basic Books, 2026). With some rare exceptions, histories of the Crusades and the Crusader Stat...
A Model Pre-Gregorian Reform Bishop: St. Ulrich of Augsburg
Back in September Ellen and I did an episode on Popes Leo IX and Gregory VII and their promotion of the Gregorian Reform of the Church. Because my hosting platform informed me that I have 21 minutes left to post a new episode this month, I deci...
Offa of Mercia: Laying the Foundations of a Kingdom of England (with Prof. Rory Naismith)
Offa, king of Mercia from 757 to 796, was the most powerful and successful Anglo-Saxon ruler of pre-Viking England. Today Offa is probably best remembered for Offa's Dyke, a massive 150 mile long earthwork that runs along the border of England ...
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