So much Shakespeare!
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Barbary Pirates, Captivity, and “Turning Turk” in Shakespeare’s England
Barbary pirates, English captives, ransom, conversion, and Mediterranean trade all played a surprising role in Shakespeare’s world. In this episode, Daniel Vitkus and Abdulhamit Arvas explain what happened when English sailors were seized, why some Britons chose to remain in North Africa, and how England’s complicated relationship with the Muslim world helped shape the culture and drama of Shakespeare’s time.
Exploring Wisson House, Shakespeare’s Neighbor
Explore the explosive and exciting life and death of Christopher Marlowe and how his work set the foundation for Renaissance theater.
Elaborate Masque Costumes in Shakespeare’s England
One of the most elaborate celebrations at court in Shakespeare’s lifetime was the court masque, and no one did it better than the ones in James I’s court. Learn about the famous costumes and the intense decorations that went into these productions.
17th Century English Spangles Found at Jamestown, Virginia
In 17th-century Jamestown, tiny metal spangles reveal a glittering connection to fashion, status, and Shakespeare’s England.
Dark Renaissance and The Death of Christopher Marlowe
Explore the explosive and exciting life and death of Christopher Marlowe and how his work set the foundation for Renaissance theater.
Midsummer and St. John’s Day in Shakespeare’s England
Explore Midsummer and St. John’s Day in Shakespeare’s England, including bonfires, seasonal rituals, ancient folklore, & the cultural world behind the plays.
Doublets, French Hose, and Plunging 16th C Necklines
What you wore in Shakespeare’s England could determine your status, your reputation—even whether you were breaking the law. This week, we uncover the hidden rules behind ruffs, farthingales, and those famously “poofy” shorts, revealing how fashion shaped identity in a world obsessed with appearance. If you’ve ever wondered how clothing could transform a character—or get someone into serious trouble.
Shampoo: How to wash your hair in Shakespeare’s England
From mixing up recipes for soap, to the basins and bowls that were used for this purpose, to the rules and expectations around hygiene for the hair, this week’s episode explores the methods for washing your hair in Shakespeare’s lifetime.
Throwing Down Your Gauntlet Glove, A History
Gauntlet gloves were as fashionable as they were complex to make. Explore the textile, design, and cultural history of this iconic glove.
How to Insult Someone Like Shakespeare
What you wore in Shakespeare’s England could determine your status, your reputation—even whether you were breaking the law. This week, we uncover the hidden rules behind ruffs, farthingales, and those famously “poofy” shorts, revealing how fashion shaped identity in a world obsessed with appearance. If you’ve ever wondered how clothing could transform a character—or get someone into serious trouble.
Cosmetic Treatments for Renaissance Women
What you wore in Shakespeare’s England could determine your status, your reputation—even whether you were breaking the law. This week, we uncover the hidden rules behind ruffs, farthingales, and those famously “poofy” shorts, revealing how fashion shaped identity in a world obsessed with appearance. If you’ve ever wondered how clothing could transform a character—or get someone into serious trouble.
Evil May Day and the Play, Sir Thomas More
Take a look at Shakespeare’s section of the play, Sir Thomas More, with fresh perspective provided by the history of Evil May Day which occurred in 1517, and rocked the cultural world for years afterwards.
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