Villains and Virgins History Podcast

A history podcast with a focus on violence, religion, and gripping stories, created by Eva Schubert, history nerd, college instructor, and jazz aficionado.

Crusaders against Christians: The Fourth Crusade part 1 05/04/2026

Crusaders against Christians: The Fourth Crusade part 1 Of all the Crusades, this one may be the worst. It is the story of how an army of Crusaders end up fighting only other Christians, and it ends with the sacking of Constantinople, the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire and the heart of the eastern Christian world. It is a tale of mistakes, greed, and misjudgment. Along the way we meet a runaway prince with delusions of grandeur, and the powerful city state of Venice, with world class shipbuilders and intense ambitions. Support this podcast on Patreon at: Patreon.com/evaschubert You can get historic coins with special code VillainsandVirgins at OwnAPieceOfHistoryUK: https://www.etsy.com/shop/OwnAPieceOfHistoryUK?ref=search_shop_redirect&utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGn2YJR7C_Md9tl0aHdx8d8JFxfxSP748ZPPE6ujHYcxOZ2h9Sy2m6YdakjHng_aem_Q6Uv5-6754FhNIPDkhDQpA /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/41137805

The Return of King Richard the Lionheart: Legends of the Third Crusade 04/20/2026

The Return of King Richard the Lionheart: Legends of the Third Crusade The Third Crusade is over and King Richard the Lionheart is making his way home, escorted by the Knights Templar. After a daring journey in disguise, he will end up becoming a prisoner, as enemies he has made settle scores. When he is ransomed and returns to his kingdom, he has a few scores of his own to settle. This story is a crazy ride through the politics of medieval Europe, where serving the wrong man can get you improsoned, hanged, or even worse. Even more remarkable than the men themselves is the astonishing afterlife enjoyed by Richard and Saladin as they become legends for generations to come, connecting with figures from Dante to Kaiser Wilhelm II. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/40922920

Richard the Lionheart vs. Saladin- The Final Confrontation 04/06/2026

Richard the Lionheart vs. Saladin- The Final Confrontation The Third Crusade involves two of the most well known figures of any crusade: Richard I, the Lionheart, King of England, and Salah ad-Din Yusuf ibn Ayyub, Sultan of Egypt and Syria. These two men each command an army, and the fate of the Near East hangs in the balance. After the Siege of Acre, the army of the Third Crusade takes the road to Jerusalem. Along the way they will face Saladin, and have an encounter with the Assassins. Their quest to take the city involves epic battles, murder, surprising camaraderie, and scandalous marriage proposals. This is the story which founded legends. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/40738970

Third Crusade: The Brutal 2 Year Siege of Acre 03/23/2026

Third Crusade: The Brutal 2 Year Siege of Acre The siege of Acre, from 1189-1191 was one of the most brutal battles of the Third Crusade. The armies of the King of Jerusalem surrounded the city of Acre, but were themselves under attack from the armies of Saladin. Into this mess, the armies of the Third Crusade, led by King Richard the Lionheart of England and Philip Augustus of France, joined the fight. The brutal siege lasted for two years, inflicting damage, disease, and death on both sides. The catapults are in full swing, hurling Greek fire at the crusaders, while sappers tunnel under ground. The Crusader states are divided over who should be king, and the fight ends with one of the most infamous massacres of the Third Crusade. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/40582890

Richard the Lionheart and the Kings Crusade 03/09/2026

Richard the Lionheart and the Kings Crusade Richard the Lionheart is one of the most famous English kings and he made his reputation on the Third Crusade. In this episode we take a closer look at the man behind the legend. His mother was the famous Eleanor of Aquitaine, and his father was the easily angered Henry II. Richard’s early career as a feudal enforcer made him an expert in siege warfare. The fall of Jerusalem triggers the call for the Third Crusade, but scandal, infighting, and a massive fight with France keep Richard tied up for two years before he can fulfill his Crusader oath. Richard will finally be crowned King of England and take the road to Jerusalem, joining the King of France, and the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick Barbarossa. Support this podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/evaschubert Tour link: https://geeknationtours.com/tours/villains-and-virgins-tudor-tour-with-eva-schubert/ /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/40368155

The Real Kingdom of Heaven: The Third Crusade Ep 1- Rise of Saladin 02/23/2026

The Real Kingdom of Heaven: The Third Crusade Ep 1- Rise of Saladin Saladin and Richard the Lionheart are two of the most legendary figures in the history of the Crusades. Saladin was both feared and admired by his friends and his enemies. This episode explores the rise of this remarkable character. We also meet the noble knight Balian of Ibelin, Queen Sibylla of Jerusalem, and the bellicose brigand Reynauld of Chatillon. There are Templar knights, a siege during a wedding, and the heroic defense of Jerusalem. The events in this story will launch the Third Crusade. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/40195305

How the Knights Templar Survived 02/09/2026

How the Knights Templar Survived The Knights Templar are one of the most famous medieval orders. They combined legendary discipline and bravery in battle with the ascetic habits of monks. Then they were publicly disgraced in a show trial and soon after the Pope dissolved the Order. But some Templars survived, and even thrived in other parts of Europe, particularly in Portugal. This episode is a sweeping ride through the Reconquista, the founding of Portugal, and the new identity that saved these knights. It also covers a famous Templar named Gualdim Pais who fought in the Siege of Ascalon, and brought his experience back to Portugal to fight a legendary battle years later. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/40040235

Lust, Treachery, and Murder: Portugal and the 100 Years War 01/26/2026

Lust, Treachery, and Murder: Portugal and the 100 Years War The story of Portugal during the 100 Years War is a story of lust, treachery and murder. It is also a story of survival and resistance. This episode covers Portugal's most notorious queen: a beautiful woman who imprisoned and killed her political enemies. The history of the royal court includes tragic love story of Ines de Castro and the military genius of Nun Alvarez. We also cover Portugal's role in the conflict between England and France, and the involvement of the neighboring kingdom of Castile, culminating in the epic Battle of Aljubarotta which secures Portugal's survival as an independent nation. This episode is a wild ride! /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/39875080

The Destruction of Pompeii: Life and Death in a Roman City 01/12/2026

The Destruction of Pompeii: Life and Death in a Roman City The volcanic eruption that buried Pompeii was a catastrophe of epic proportions. But the mass burial site it created also preserved details of daily life in a first century Roman city that we might otherwise never know. From flying phalluses and gladiators to condiments made from decaying fish, dive into the life and death of Pompeii. To support this podcast on Patreon go to: For details of Eva's history tour, go to Geek Nation: /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/39685870

The History of Santa Claus 12/22/2025

The History of Santa Claus Santa Claus is a very strange figure when you think about it. Where does he come from and why does he fly through the sky handing out presents at night? This episode traces the connection with an old Norse god and an Anatolian bishop from the 3rd century, and explores the gritty reality of life in the Roman empire for ordinary people. You will never look at old Saint Nick the same way again. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/39492105

A Day in the Life of A Roman Legionary 12/15/2025

A Day in the Life of A Roman Legionary What did life look like for the average soldier in the Roman army? In this episode we get into the details of packs, march speed, camp construction, and food on the march. Many of the procedures for new recruits in the Roman military machine sound shockingly familiar. The penalties for breaking the rules were extremely severe. Come along on the march with Legionary Valerius and experience a taste of life in the Roman legions. Special thanks to Roger Meara and Chris Cameron @thelegionary72 for supplying images and footage for this episode. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/39404635

History of the Sword 12/01/2025

History of the Sword The sword is more than just a weapon. It has been used to dub knights and legitimise kings, determine guilt and settle matters of honour. From the ancient Romans and the Song of Roland to dueling culture and German Mensur matches, this cultural history traces the legends and traditions that have given the sword its enduring mystique. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/39215385

Murder in the Cathedral: The Killing of Thomas Becket 11/17/2025

Murder in the Cathedral: The Killing of Thomas Becket The horrific murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket in his own cathedral shocked Europe and immediately created one of the most famous martyrs in English history. The story begins with Thomas Becket in exile in France, fleeing the anger of Henry II of England. Despite being the king's pick for Archbishop of Canterbury, he has refused to cooperate with the king's plans for the church. An international game of diplomacy ensues, with the King of France and the Pope heavily involved in an effort to reconcile the two men. King Henry takes extraordinary measures to avoid church punishments, including demanding a loyalty oath from every man in his kingdom. Eventually he promises to reinstate Thomas Becket and make peace... only months before the murder of the century. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/39047405

England's Most Vengeful King? 11/03/2025

England's Most Vengeful King? King Henry II was a man with a terrible temper. He was determined to have absolute control of his subjects, but one unlikely man stood up to him. In this episode women are seized from convents and forcibly married, messengers suffer grisly punishments, and a good number of body parts are forcibly removed when the king flies into a rage. This is the story of archbishop Thomas Becket who stood up to the vengeful Plantaganet king. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/38886340

Eleanor of Aquitaine Ep 4: A Tale of Rival Kings 10/20/2025

Eleanor of Aquitaine Ep 4: A Tale of Rival Kings This is the story of how one woman changed the balance of power in Western Europe, by divorcing one man and marrying another. Eleanor of Aquitaine is the Queen of France, but has been alienated from her husband. Her campaign for an end to that marriage led to a shocking remarriage with a much younger man, and the beginning of the Plantaganet dynasty in England. Along the way we discover why our favorite tales of knightly romance, from Lancelot and Guinevere to Tristan and Isolde, are connected to Eleanor and her enormous influence. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/38638800

Eleanor of Aquitaine and the Second Crusade Ep 3: A Scandal for the Ages 10/06/2025

Eleanor of Aquitaine and the Second Crusade Ep 3: A Scandal for the Ages The dwindling army of the Second Crusade arrives in Antioch, where a quarrel over military strategy is influenced by rumours of a sex scandal involving the Queen of France. The Crusaders make some very bad decisions, leading to a failed attack and a humiliating retreat. Find out why the Second Crusade was such a dismal failure. Support this podcast on Patreon.com/evaschubert For details of an upcoming history tour with Eva go to: /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/38476430

Eleanor of Aquitaine and the Second Crusade Ep 2: A Total Debacle 09/22/2025

Eleanor of Aquitaine and the Second Crusade Ep 2: A Total Debacle The Second Crusade leaves Europe under the command of two kings, fielding the largest number of men in a generation. Eleanor of Aquitaine rides with her husband, King Louis VII of France, while Conrad Hohenstaufen leads forces from the Holy Roman Empire. What follows is not glorious victory, but embarrassment and disaster on an epic scale. The fingers of blame point in all directions, as the Crusaders learn that the road to Jerusalem is littered with bad decisions -- and bones. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/38301905

The Second Crusade Ep 1: Eleanor of Aquitaine, the medieval queen who went to war 09/08/2025

The Second Crusade Ep 1: Eleanor of Aquitaine, the medieval queen who went to war The Second Crusade would be a disaster, but why did it happen and how did it get started? The call to arms was preached by a closet dwelling ascetic who happened to be the leading churchman of his generation-- none other than Bernard of Clairveaux. In this episode we meet Eleanor of Aquitaine, the queen who ruled both France and then England, and went on crusade. A horrifying mass death, a guilty royal conscience, and one of the most notorious womanisers of the Middle Ages are all part of the story in this episode. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/38123695

Templars Ep 2: The Fiery End 08/25/2025

Templars Ep 2: The Fiery End The Templars began as warrior monks, but have been linked to everything from demon worship to forbidden sexual practices. What happened? This episode follows the history of the spectacular fall of a knightly order. A power struggle between a king and a pope, infiltration, torture, and the Inquisition -- it is a turbulent tale. Because of the many rumours about the Templars, I will point out that this episode relies entirely on historical sources, primarily the work of Professor Malcolm Barber. You can support this podcast on www.Patreon.com/evaschubert /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/37840995

Templars Ep 1: The Rise of the Knights Templar 08/11/2025

Templars Ep 1: The Rise of the Knights Templar The Knights Templar are surrounded by legends and conspiracy theories. Who were they actually? This episode tracks the Templars from their inception as an order of warrior monks in the Crusader state of Jerusalem, to their astonishing expansion into an international organisation of enormous wealth and power. Along the way we encounter Crusader kings, Bernard of Clairveaux, the white slave trade, the Knights Hospitaller, and the Assassins. Footnote: In this episode I mention Krak de Chevalier among the Templar castles because it is perhaps the most stunning example of Crusader fortresses. However, unlike the other castles I have mentioned by name, Krak de Chevalier was used by the Hospitaller Knights, a brother order to the Templars. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/37755120

The First Crusade Ep 4: Rise of the Crusader Kings 07/28/2025

The First Crusade Ep 4: Rise of the Crusader Kings The Crusaders have taken Jerusalem but they face one final battle. When the men start to head home, the legend of the First Crusade is born, and a massive new wave of Crusaders heads east. Not everyone wants to go home however; Godfrey of Bouillon becomes ruler of Jerusalem. His brother Baldwin manages to take control of Edessa, and one Crusader aspires to be not just a prince, but to take the imperial throne for himself. Along the way there are devious marriages, murder plots, and total disasters as the Crusaders defend their kingdoms in the east. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/37567810

The First Crusade Ep 3: Jerusalem in Flames 07/14/2025

The First Crusade Ep 3: Jerusalem in Flames The Crusaders narrowly escape annihilation when they attempt to fight their way out of Antioch. Some men credit the miracle of the Holy Lance for their amazing escape. Divisions emerge amongst the nobles, while the army starves. Some Crusaders turn to cannibalism, and a fiery trial by ordeal ends the career of a peasant preacher. The Crusadering army finally arrives at the walls of Jerusalem in 1099, and the stories of what they do when they get inside are hair raising. Faith, violence, hate, and ambition are all rolled together in this dramatic episode. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/37392320

The First Crusade Ep 2: Siege of Antioch 06/30/2025

The First Crusade Ep 2: Siege of Antioch As Western knights and nobles ride toward Jerusalem, there are many other cities they must take along the way. Their first battlefield encounter with the Turks leaves a lasting impression on both sides, but they are soon occupied with besieging fortified cities. Heads are brandished on spears and bodies hang on display from the ramparts. The siege of Antioch comes close to ending the entire crusade on more that one occasion, with starvation, desertion, and enemy armies of much larger size. Heroic feats, cannibalism, and nearly miraculous escapes are all part of this gripping story. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/37214590

The First Crusade: Call to Arms 06/16/2025

The First Crusade: Call to Arms The First Crusade became the stuff of legend soon after it finished. Western knights headed to Constantinople and ultimately to Jerusalem, to rescue pilgrimage sites from the control of Muslim invaders. The crusade involved close to 100,000 people from Western Europe heading east, in a journey that would cover thousands of miles, mostly on foot. It’s often told as a struggle of East vs. West, and Christianity against Islam. The history is more complicated. What set so many knights off on this journey to the east? Why did so many ordinary people make the crusade? Find out in this episode. Related episodes include: The Great Schism The Normans in Italy /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/37026675

Knights, Jousts, and Courtly Love 06/02/2025

Knights, Jousts, and Courtly Love The image of the knight in shining armour has had a very long shadow in Western culture, from King Arthur to Monty Python. The reality of life for medieval knights, obsessed with honour and reputation is the subject of this episode. We meet a real Spanish knight, Suero de Quinones, who wore an iron collar and broke hundreds of lances for the love of a lady. What was courtly love and how did it work? How were jousting matches organised? Enter the world of a medieval knight! /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/36820175

Camino de Santiago and Medieval Pilgrimage 05/19/2025

Camino de Santiago and Medieval Pilgrimage The Camino de Santiago pilgrimage is exploding in popularity these days, but the modern travellers are part of a tradition that is over 1000 years old. How did the Camino begin? Why did medieval people go on pilgrimages anyway? From drinking wine used to wash skulls, to pilgrims in chains, this episode explores the world of medieval Christianity, and the surprising traditions around pilgrimage, including why the Camino is booming today. Support this podcast on Patreon at: patreon.com/evaschubert /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/36619775

Empire of the Franks Ep 2: The Vikings Attack 05/05/2025

Empire of the Franks Ep 2: The Vikings Attack The grandsons of Charlemagne slide into civil war, with thousands of Franks killing each other over the division of the empire. Though the Treaty of Verdun ends the bloodletting, Frankish troubles are far from over. Vikings sail up the Seine and sack Paris, finally leaving after being bought off by King Charles of West Francia. However Louis the German, King of East Francia, makes Viking raiders return what they stole from his territory, and collects tribute money from them. He may have been particularly disgruntled since his wife took a vow of chastity. This is the story of a king dubbed "Louis of the Iron Hands" for his extraordinary strength, and the distinctive culture he created in the lands that would become Germany. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/36431950

Empire of the Franks Ep 1: Grit and Steel 04/21/2025

Empire of the Franks Ep 1: Grit and Steel Both the Germans and the French trace their origins to Charlemagne and the Franks. But who were the Franks, and how did they have such a powerful effect on the shape of Western Europe? This episode is a family drama gone wild, as the warriors of Charlemagne's family compete for land and status. Blindings, treachery and imprisonment follow. Our story will focus on one warrior in particular, known as Louis the German. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/36244390

Normans in Italy EP 3: King of Sicily 03/21/2025

Normans in Italy EP 3: King of Sicily Roger II has played a high stakes game to secure his crown. Now a king, he must face the consequences of backing the wrong Pope. Rebellious barons, treacherous in-laws, and the loss of his beloved wife burden him as Roger continues to fight for his kingdom. Two emperors conspire to jointly attack him, and the Sicilian navy stages an audacious raid at the gates of Constantinople. Roger II defines himself as a ruler unlike any other in Western Europe. His borrowing of statecraft, scholars, and silk makers from the East has his enemies whispering that he has gone full sultan. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/35802715

Normans in Sicily EP 2: Roger II 03/12/2025

Normans in Sicily EP 2: Roger II Roger II inherits his father’s position as ruler of Sicily and begins to take over parts of Southern Italy as well. Along the way a daring plan leads Norman knights out of a desperate situation, and a Crusader king proposes marriage. Norman state-building in Sicily takes on a unique character, and Norman knights fight armies led by the Pope. When two popes are elected on the same day, Roger II must choose which Pope he will support in exchange for a crown. /episode/index/show/villainsandvirgins/id/35646905

Villains and Virgins History Podcast

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