This week we're marking halloween, as I delve into the history of the worlds most notorious highwayman. I move past the romantic facade to uncover the truth behind this famous Victorian rogue.

Episode 20: Dick Turpin

This week we're getting into the halloween spirit, with the history of the Headless Horseman. This American ghost story dates back thousands of years and has variations all over the world.

Episode 19: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow 

Elves have been part of storytelling for centuries, from the Vikings to Father Christmas, from Shakespeare to Disney. But why? What makes these mischievous beings so appealing? Join me as I delve into this weeks adorable fairytale and the origins of our favourite mythical creatures.

Episode 18: The Elves and the Shoemaker 

In this week's episode I look into the intriguing history of 'The Frog Prince', a fairytale that dates back to the 13th century. Not only does the original fairytale have a rich back story, but Disney's re-invention of the tale was based on a real woman from New Orleans.

Episode 17: The Frog Prince 

We all know this Disney classic: beautiful, intelligent girl is trapped in a castle by a huge beast who turns out to be a handsome prince (yawn).......But what if I told you it was based on real people? I know, I was shocked too! Join me as I go back in time to discover the truth behind Beauty and the Beast.

Episode 16: Beauty and the Beast 

How did a graphic novel intended for adults inspire one of Disney's most successful films? And how did Victor Hugo's masterpiece save a famous monument from being modernised in the 19th century? I discuss all this and more in this weeks podcast all about The Hunchback of Notre Dame.

Episode 15: The Hunchback of Notre Dame 

This week I delve into the origins of England's oldest fairytale, and the story that inspired the stage name of the first global celebrity.

Episode 14: Tom Thumb

So this fairytale even pre-dates the Bible! Join me as I explore how this story changes with the times, as it moves around the world orally and is then published for the first time in 1734.

Episode 13: Jack and The Beanstalk 

It's a double whammy this week, as I explore the world of famous fables. Both these tales centre around the rule of three and have an unusual original version.

Episode 12: The Three Little Pigs and Goldilocks and the Three Bears 

Join me as I look into the truth behind some of our best loved children&apos;s stories.

Join me as I look into the truth behind some of our best loved children's stories.

The Forgotten Origins Podcast

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