For medieval people, the apocalypse was not some distant prophecy—it was an imminent reality shaping their lives.
In Medieval Apocalypse, historian Dr. Eleanor Janega embarks on a journey through England and France to uncover how our ancestors understood the end of days. From the terrifying visions of the Book of Revelation to the vivid warnings carved into church walls, the apocalypse was woven into their art, literature, and daily existence.
Dr Eleanor Janega investigates the apocalyptic messages stamped into great cathedrals, beautifully illuminated in manuscripts and woven into great tapestries. Through these works, the medieval world wrestled with the ultimate questions: who would be saved, and who would be damned?
Dr. Janega explores a world where faith and fear collided, and where the apocalypse wasn’t just a story—it was a certainty.
If you enjoyed the Mystery Play, you can see one with your own eyes…On Saturday 26 April 2025, a cycle of medieval mystery plays will be performed by various troupes around St Edmund Hall’s grounds: https://www.seh.ox.ac.uk/mystery-cycle
For even more Apocalypse, on 8th April, Dr. Eleanor Janega and Prof. James Palmer uncover and celebrate every clawed and winged monster that foretold the end of the medieval world in History Hit's podcast Gone Medieval https://lnkfi.re/rzjPMB
Up Next in Newest History Hit Originals
-
The First Emperor of China
In March 1974, one of the most astonishing archaeological discoveries in history was made in the heart of China: the Terracotta Warriors. These incredible clay statues were built and buried over 2000 years ago - but who made them? And why?
Dan Snow comes face to face with the warriors and heads...
-
Medieval Cold Case: Stirling Castle S...
30 years ago, nine skeletons were discovered buried within the grounds of Stirling Castle, Scotland. Their identities remain a mystery, but injuries found on them suggest that they all suffered brutally violent deaths.
Dr Jo Buckberry, a battle trauma expert at the University of Bradford, believ...
-
Bannockburn: The Battle for Scotland
Helen Carr takes a deep dive into the story of one of the most decisive battles in medieval history.
In 1314, a massive English army headed into Scotland, led by King Edward II. He was on a mission to crush his arch enemy, the Scottish King, Robert the Bruce.
The battle that followed, by the Ba...
11 Comments