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 There's no such thing as the Dark Ages
-
Conquest 1066: Told By the Teacher Yo...
If you went to school in the UK, chances are you spent hours of class time learning about 1066. Whether they're fond memories or times you'd rather forget, revisit the Norman Conquest with us now. Enjoy an entertaining lesson, featuring exciting reconstructions, with Martyn Whittock, the teacher ...
-
The Galloway Hoard
A real treat for History Hit, this is an exceptional private view of a unique discovery, a glittering hoard of beautifully crafted objects in silver, gold and crystal, buried in the ground and forgotten 1100 years ago.
The Galloway Hoard opens an extraordinary window into the Viking Age, a time...
-
Rollo the Viking: From Exile to Conqu...
You’re probably familiar with Rollo, a main character of the series Vikings. But did you know that he is based on a real-life Viking leader: Rollo?
After years of inquiry, based on a manuscript, you’ll discover, thanks to experts and re-enactments, the epic tale of this forgotten hero, ancestor ...
20 Comments