Share

cover art for Martyrs and Myths: The Evolution of Patron Saints with Francis Young

History Rage

Martyrs and Myths: The Evolution of Patron Saints with Francis Young

Season 13, Ep. 2

Embark on a historical odyssey with us as we unravel the tangled web of patron saints and national identities in the latest episode of History Rage. Our returning rager, Frances Young, a scholar of religious history and folklore, sheds light on the misconceptions surrounding patron saints, particularly those tethered to nations. Join us as we dissect the myths, explore the evolution of these religious figures, and their profound impact on cultural and national identity.


Patron Saints and National Identity:

- The misconception of a singular, official patron saint for each nation.

- How medieval societies understood and engaged with the cult of saints.

- The influence of patron saints on the formation of national identity.


Saints and Their Surprising Patronages:

- The curious associations of saints with various causes and professions.

- The role of martyrdom and relics in shaping the veneration of saints.

- The fluidity and informality of saints' patronages over time.


Saints in the Fabric of National Identity:

- The enduring legacy of St. Patrick and his synonymous relationship with Irish identity.

- The integration of saintly figures into royal dynasties and their impact on legitimacy and succession.

- The role of saints in the devotional formation of national consciousness.


Saint George vs. Saint Edmund:

- The historical shift from St. Edmund to St. George as England's prominent patron.

- The influence of the Reformation and state iconography on this transition.

- The reality of multiple patron saints co-existing within a nation's history.


Francis Young's Call to Rethink Patron Saints:

- Challenging the rigid notions of patron saints and embracing their folkloric nature.

- Recognizing the people's role in shaping the cult of saints through popular religion.

- The importance of acknowledging the multiplicity of patron saints in reflecting a nation's complex identity.


For further enlightenment, delve into Francis Young's profound works on St. Edmund and other aspects of religion and folklore, available through the History Rage bookshop. Follow his prolific musings on Twitter @DrFrancisYoung and engage with the vibrant discussion.


Don't forget to review us on your preferred podcast platforms and join the conversation on Twitter @HistoryRage. Support our passionate endeavour on Patreon and become part of the 'Angry Mob' for exclusive content and the treasured History Rage mug at patreon.com/historyrage.


Tune in, stay informed, and stay angry

More episodes

View all episodes

  • 8. Beyond the Pankhursts: The True Story Behind Women's Rights to Vote with Shalina Patel

    01:05:20||Season 15, Ep. 8
    EXPLICIT LANGUAGE WARNINGWelcome back to another fiery episode of History Rage! This week, host Paul Bavill is joined by history teacher and author Shalina Patel to delve into the often misunderstood world of Edwardian politics. Together, they tackle the myths surrounding the suffragette movement and the contributions of the Pankhursts.Debunking the Pankhurst Myth: Shalina passionately argues against the belief that the Pankhursts single-handedly won women the right to vote. She highlights the contributions of other organisations and individuals, including the suffragists, working-class women, and even men who supported women's suffrage.The Diverse Suffrage Movement:The NUWSS and WSPU: The peaceful suffragists led by Millicent Fawcett versus the militant suffragettes led by the Pankhursts.Regional and Religious Groups: From the Birmingham National Society for Women's Suffrage to the Jewish League for Women's Suffrage.Specialised Groups: The Women's Tax Resistance League, the Young Hot Bloods, and the Actresses' Franchise League.Working-Class Suffragettes: Shalina sheds light on the often overlooked contributions of working-class women like Selena Martin and Kitty Marion, who faced harsher treatment in prison compared to their middle-class counterparts.The Role of Men: Men also played a crucial role in the suffrage movement, with groups like the Men's Political Union for Women's Enfranchisement using their influence to support the cause.Guest Information:Get Shalina's book "The History Lessons" through the History Rage Bookshop or on Amazon.Follow Shalina on Twitter: @MS_PatelHistory.Join the conversation and share your historical vexations on Twitter @HistoryRage or with Paul Bavill @PaulBavill. Use the hashtag #HistoryRage.Support History Rage on Patreon for early episode access, the chance to submit questions to guests, prize draws, and the exclusive History Rage mug at www.patreon.com/historyrage.To catch up on all the rage from bygone times, visit our website www.historyrage.comIf you want to get in touch with History Rage, email us at historyragepod@gmail.comFollow History Rage on Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoryRageTwitter: https://twitter.com/HistoryRageInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrage/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/historyrage.bsky.socialStay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage
  • Katherine of Aragon Festival #5 - Beyond the Divorce: Reassessing Katherine of Aragon's True Legacy with Dr. Elizabeth Norton

    34:13|
    In this gripping finale of our live specials from the Katherine of Aragon Festival, host Paul Bavill is joined by the brilliant historian Dr. Elizabeth Norton to set the record straight about one of history's most maligned queens. Together, they delve into the life and legacy of Katherine of Aragon, challenging the enduring narrative that paints her as a failure. The Legacy of a QueenUnveiling the Myths: Elizabeth passionately argues against the portrayal of Katherine as a failed queen, highlighting her 24-year reign and significant achievements, including her role as a powerful regent during Henry VIII's absence.Motherhood and Misfortune: Discover the truth behind Katherine's struggles with motherhood and the unfair blame placed upon her for not producing a surviving male heir.Katherine's StrengthA Spirited Defence: Elizabeth recounts Katherine's remarkable resilience during the Great Matter, showcasing her fierce advocacy for her marriage and her unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.Political Acumen: Explore how Katherine's upbringing and education shaped her diplomatic skills, allowing her to navigate the treacherous waters of Tudor politics with grace and determination. Closing Reflections:Elizabeth calls on listeners to reconsider their views on Katherine, emphasising the importance of viewing her life in its entirety rather than through the lens of her tragic end.As the episode wraps up, Elizabeth shares insights into her upcoming book, "Women Who Ruled the World," promising to shed light on powerful queens throughout history. Don't miss this enlightening discussion that reclaims Katherine of Aragon's legacy from the shadows of history. Join us as we celebrate the life of a queen who deserves to be remembered not as a failure, but as a formidable and influential figure in her own right. Get InvolvedSupport History Rage: For just £3 per month on Patreon or Apple, enjoy early access to episodes, ad-free listening, and exclusive content.Follow Elizabeth Norton: Stay updated on her work by following her on Twitter and Instagram @ENortonHistory. Stay ConnectedJoin the conversation and keep the rage alive! Visit historyrage.com for past episodes and updates.Follow us on:Facebook: History RageTwitter: @HistoryRageInstagram: @historyrage Stay passionate, stay curious, and let the rage for historical truth burn brighter!
  • 7. Pearl Harbour: Beyond the Blame Game with Ronald Drabkin

    43:25||Season 15, Ep. 7
    Welcome back, ragers, to another fiery episode of History Rage! This week, host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and author Ronald Drabkin to delve into the contentious topic of the Pearl Harbour attack. Ronald, known for his gripping book "Beverly Hills Spy," unpacks the myths and misconceptions surrounding this pivotal event in World War II. Contextual Misunderstandings: Ronald Drabkin expresses his frustration with how historical events are often taken out of context, particularly the notion that various unverified warnings could have predicted the attack on Pearl Harbour.The infamous story of a Chinese chef allegedly warning the US ambassador about the attack.The complexities of intelligence and the unreliability of certain sources, such as Agent Tricycle.The Blame Game:Admiral Kimmel's unjust scapegoating and the broader implications of the blame placed on him and his team.The evidence supporting the idea that Washington unfairly singled out the Hawaii-based commanders.The role of broken Japanese codes and the overlooked warnings that were lost in bureaucratic mishandling.Japanese Military Strategy:The meticulous planning and training that went into the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour.The effectiveness and innovation of the Japanese Navy, led by Admiral Yamamoto.The psychological and strategic goals behind the attack, and why the Japanese Navy deserves more credit.Conspiracy Theories:Debunking the popular conspiracy theory that Churchill and Roosevelt orchestrated the attack to bring the US into the war.The kernel of truth in British efforts to sway US public opinion, but the leap to collusion with Japan is unfounded.The role of declassified documents in shedding light on the true events leading up to Pearl Harbour.Guest Information:Ronald Drabkin's book: "Beverly Hills Spy"Follow Ronald Drabkin on Twitter @DrabkinRon for more insights and updates.Don't forget to leave a review for History Rage on Apple, Podchaser, Amazon, or wherever you can! And join the 'Angry Mob' on Patreon for early episodes, prize draws, and the History Rage mug. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/historyrage.You can follow History Rage on Twitter @HistoryRage and Instagram @historyrage or Paul individually @PaulBavill and let us know what you wish people would just stop believing using the Hashtag #HistoryRage.To catch up on all the rage from bygone times go to the website www.historyrage.comIf you want to get in touch with History Rage then email historyragepod@gmail.comStay Angry, Stay Informed - History Rage
  • Katherine of Aragon Festival # 4 Not Rival Queens: The Untold Story of Katherine and Anne with Estelle Paranque

    22:26|
    Join us for a thrilling episode of History Rage live from the Katherine of Aragon Festival, as historian Estelle Perron challenges the polarisation of two of history's most famous queens.Two Queens, One KingRethinking Rivalries: Estelle discusses the absurdity of pitting Catherine of Aragon against Anne Boleyn, highlighting their shared struggles and strengths in the face of a tyrannical husband.Henry VIII: The Real Monster: With passion, Estelle exposes the darker side of Henry VIII, arguing that his legacy should not be revered but condemned, as he orchestrated the suffering of his wives and many others.Empowered WomenIntellectual Equals: Both women were fiercely intelligent and politically savvy, advocating for education and the welfare of the poor, challenging the notion that they were mere pawns in a royal game.Motherhood and Legacy: Discover how both queens were devoted mothers, fiercely protective of their children, and how their maternal instincts shaped their legacies.The Untold ConnectionsShared History: Estelle reveals the lesser-known connections between Catherine and Anne, including their time in France before the rivalry began, showcasing their similarities rather than differences.Breaking the Myths: Encouraging a more nuanced understanding of both queens, Estelle calls for a celebration of their unique qualities without the need for competition.As the conversation unfolds, Estelle challenges listeners to reconsider their views on Henry VIII and the women who endured his reign. Don't miss her compelling insights at the Katherine of Aragon Festival! Get InvolvedExplore Estelle's Work: Purchase her book, Thorns, Lust and Glory, to dive deeper into the lives of these remarkable women.Support History Rage: For just £3 per month on Patreon or Apple, enjoy early access to episodes, ad-free listening, and exclusive content. Stay ConnectedJoin the conversation and keep the rage alive! Visit historyrage.com for past episodes and updates. Follow us on:Facebook: History RageTwitter: @HistoryRageInstagram: @historyrageBluesky: History RageStay passionate, stay curious, and let the rage for historical truth burn brighter!
  • Katherine of Aragon Festival #3 - Debunking The Tyrant - Mary I with Peter Stiffel

    43:39|
    Peter Stiffel Sets the Record StraightAs the Katherine of Aragon Festival approaches, historian Peter Stiffel delves into the life of Mary I, challenging the myths that label her as a tyrant and a monster.The Myth of "Bloody Mary"Debunking the Tyrant Narrative: Peter challenges the image of Mary as a cruel ruler, emphasizing her compassion and commitment to her people.Mary's Achievements: Explore the often-overlooked reforms Mary implemented, from economic recovery to educational advancements.Mary’s LegacyFirst Female Monarch: Mary I was England’s first queen regnant, setting the stage for future female rulers like Elizabeth I.Cultural Contributions: Discover how Mary’s reign enriched England’s cultural landscape, supporting artists and influencing its artistic heritage.The Reality of Her ReignPolitical Context: Understand the challenges Mary faced, including political intrigue and religious conflicts that shaped her rule.Personal Struggles: Gain insights into Mary’s life, including her fraught relationship with Henry VIII and the influence of her mother, Katherine of Aragon.Celebrate Mary I’s true legacy and dismantle the myths surrounding her reign at Peter’s talk during the Katherine of Aragon Festival on January 25th at Peterborough Cathedral.Follow Peter on Twitter/X: @PStiffelGet InvolvedPurchase Tickets: Visit peterborough-cathedral.org.uk to join the festival.Support History Rage: Gain early access and exclusive content by subscribing at patreon.com/historyrage.Stay ConnectedSupport our historical explorations by subscribing via Apple Podcasts or Patreon, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform.Visit historyrage.com for past episodes and updates.Contact Us: Email us at historyragepod@gmail.com.Follow History Rage:Facebook: History RageTwitter/X: @HistoryRageInstagram: @historyrageBluesky: History RageStay passionate, stay curious, and let the rage for historical truth burn brighter!
  • Katherine of Aragon Festival #2 - Peterborough’s Rich History with Reverend Canon Tim Alban-Jones

    43:32|
    Join us on a captivating journey through Peterborough’s rich history in this special History Rage episode, created in partnership with the Katherine of Aragon Festival. Reverend Canon Tim Alban Jones, Vice Dean of Peterborough Cathedral, shares the incredible legacy of this historic city and its iconic cathedral.Ancient BeginningsDiscover Peterborough’s roots, from Bronze Age Flag Fen to its Saxon founding as Meadhamstead Abbey in 654.Uncover the Norman impact and the architectural marvel of Peterborough Cathedral, a symbol of resilience through centuries.Katherine of Aragon’s LegacyExplore the enduring influence of Katherine of Aragon, buried in Peterborough Cathedral.Learn how her story shapes the city’s identity and inspires the annual festival celebrating her remarkable life.Reformation and ResilienceWitness the dramatic Reformation as Peterborough Abbey became a cathedral under figures like John Chambers.Hear tales of resilience as the city adapted to monumental change.Victorian RestorationAppreciate the Victorians’ efforts to save Peterborough Cathedral, including its marble mosaic pavement and uninterrupted views.Discover how restoration preserved its place as a historical and architectural gem.Celebrate Peterborough’s vibrant past, from its ancient origins to its Reformation-era transformation and beyond. If you're attending the Katherine of Aragon Festival, don’t miss nearby treasures like the Peterborough Museum and Burghley House.Get InvolvedLearn more about Reverend Canon Tim Alban Jones’s work and book tickets for the festival at peterboroughcathedral.org.uk.Support our historical deep dives on patreon.com/historyrage or via Apple for exclusive content, early episodes, and the coveted History Rage mug.Stay ConnectedCatch up on all the rage at www.historyrage.com or email us at historyragepod@gmail.com.Follow us on:Facebook: History RageTwitter: @HistoryRageInstagram: @HistoryRageBluesky: historyrage.bsky.socialStay informed, stay passionate, and let the rage for historical truth continue to burn!
  • Fascist Fables: The Mitford Sisters' Sanitisation with Guy Walters

    41:59|
    In this fiery episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes back historian, journalist, and author Guy Walters to rage against the sanitized veneration of the Mitford Sisters. These interwar aristocrats have often been glamorized in books, media, and society, but beneath their glittering façade lies a much darker reality.Fascist Fables:Unity Mitford's Obsession with Hitler: Unity stalked Adolf Hitler, met him over 130 times, and became one of his closest British confidantes. Her diaries, recently unearthed and published, reveal her disturbing Nazi sympathies and personal infatuation with the Führer.Diana Mitford's Glamour and Extremism: Diana married Oswald Mosley, leader of the British Union of Fascists, in Joseph Goebbels' living room, with Hitler himself in attendance. Despite her aristocratic charm, Diana remained an unrepentant fascist even decades after the war.The Mitford Dynamic:The Extreme Spectrum: With parents steeped in fascist ideology, the Mitford siblings included fascists like Diana and Unity, alongside Jessica Mitford, an avowed communist. Guy explores how political extremism permeated the family’s psyche.Romanticisation in Media: From syrupy books to glossy TV dramas, the Mitfords are too often depicted as glamorous, eccentric aristocrats, overshadowing their political extremism and disturbing sympathies.Guy’s Call to Action:Stop the Mitford glorification. Shift your fascination to figures like the women of the SOE—glamorous, courageous, and committed to fighting tyranny, not enabling it.Join Guy Walters as he dismantles the myths surrounding the Mitford Sisters and rages against the misplaced admiration for these controversial figures.📝 For more on this topic, follow him on X (formerly Twitter) at @guywalters.Relevant Links:Guy’s Book Berlin Games: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780719567742Diana Mitford on Desert Island Discs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_IPuTSdgeYs Follow History Rage on Social Media:Facebook: facebook.com/HistoryRageTwitter: @HistoryRageInstagram: @historyrageBluesky: historyrage.bsky.social🎙️ Enjoyed this episode? Support History Rage on Patreon at patreon.com/historyrage for ad-free listening, sneak previews, and exclusive perks!Stay informed, stay passionate, and keep raging for the truth!
  • 6. Crusader Criminals: The Rogue Knights of the Holy Lands with Steve Tibble

    54:00||Season 15, Ep. 6
    Prepare to have your preconceptions of the Crusades shattered in this fiery episode of History Rage! Host Paul Bavill is joined by historian and author Dr. Steve Tibble, who takes us on a myth-busting journey through the tumultuous world of the Crusader states. Dr. Tibble, author of "Crusader Criminals: The Knights Who Went Rogue in the Holy Land," delves into the dark and often overlooked aspects of Crusader history, revealing the chaos, criminality, and cultural clashes that defined this era. The Rage Against Historical Distortion:- Dr. Tibble debunks the common misconceptions about the Crusades, highlighting the diverse and complex nature of the Crusader states, where Europeans, Arabs, and Armenians intermingled and intermarried.- Discover how the image of the noble, white knight is far from the reality, as Crusader armies were a melting pot of different ethnicities and religions.Crusader Criminality Unveiled:- Explore the seedy underbelly of the Crusader states, where piracy, banditry, and rogue knights were rampant.- Hear about the shocking tales of pirates who terrorized the seas and bandits who made travel perilous, even for high-ranking officials.The True Nature of the Crusades:- Dr. Tibble challenges the notion that the Crusades were purely religious wars, arguing that they were also a clash between nomadic and sedentary societies, driven by climate change and mass migration.- Learn about the fragmented and competitive nature of the Middle East during the Crusades, where local Muslim rulers often fought each other as much as they did the Crusaders. Saladin: The Great Conqueror:- Reevaluate the legacy of Saladin, often portrayed as a unifier and chivalrous leader, but who spent most of his career fighting and conquering his Muslim neighbours.- Understand the complex and often brutal tactics used by Saladin to maintain his power and expand his territory. Join us as Dr. Steve Tibble lifts the lid on the chaotic and violent world of the Crusades, challenging the myths and revealing the gritty reality of this historical period. For a deeper dive into his work, be sure to check out his book "Crusader Criminals" and follow him on Twitter at @DrSteveTibble. For more rage-fuelled historical revelations, support us on Patreon at patreon.com/historyrage for exclusive content and the coveted History Rage mug. Visit our website at www.historyrage.comGet in touch with History Rage, email us at historyragepod@gmail.com Follow History Rage on Social MediaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoryRageTwitter: https://twitter.com/HistoryRageInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrage/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/historyrage.bsky.social Stay informed, stay passionate, stay angry!
  • Katherine of Aragon Festival #1 - The Unsung Tudor: Henry VII's Triumphs and Misconceptions with Nathen Amin

    59:03|
    Prepare to dive into the tumultuous world of Tudor politics in this special episode of History Rage, brought to you in partnership with the Catherine of Aragon Festival. Host Paul Bavill is joined by Nathan Amin, author, historian, and renowned critic of historical misconceptions, as they embark on a spirited discussion about the often overlooked reign of Henry VII.The Tudor Tantrum:- Nathan Amin passionately argues for a re-evaluation of Henry VII's legacy, challenging the prevailing perception of him as a mere bridge between Richard III and Henry VIII.- Discover why Henry VII's reign deserves more attention, as Nathan details his significant contributions to England's stability and prosperity, overshadowed by his more infamous successors.Restoring Royal Authority:- Learn how Henry VII consolidated power and restored royal authority, navigating the treacherous political landscape left by the Wars of the Roses.- Explore the measures he implemented to centralise government and reduce the influence of overambitious nobles, ensuring lasting peace and stability.Financial Reforms and Misconceptions:- Nathan debunks the myth of Henry VII as a miserly king, highlighting his strategic financial policies that strengthened the crown's independence.- Uncover the truth behind Henry's avaricious reputation and how his financial acumen laid the groundwork for a prosperous Tudor dynasty.Diplomacy and Foreign Policy:- Delve into Henry VII's foreign policy strategies, which prioritised peace and alliances over warfare, securing England's continental reputation.- Understand the significance of his diplomatic ties with France, Scotland, and the Spanish Trastamara dynasty, which bolstered England's position in Europe.Join us as Nathan Amin sheds light on the complexities of Henry VII's reign, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of this pivotal Tudor monarch. To explore Nathan's work further, visit the History Rage bookshop for his latest book, "Son of Prophecy: The Rise of Henry Tudor," and follow him on social media at @NathanAmin.Support the rage that fuels our historical deep dives by clicking the Apple Subscription link or at patreon.com/historyrage, and don't forget to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.To catch up on all the rage from bygone times, visit our website at www.historyrage.comIf you want to get in touch with History Rage, email historyragepod@gmail.comFollow History Rage on Social MediaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HistoryRageTwitter: https://twitter.com/HistoryRageInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/historyrage/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/historyrage.bsky.socialStay informed, stay passionate, and let the rage for truth in history rage on!