Helen Castor on Medieval Power and Personalities

In this episode of Conversations with Tyler, Tyler Cowen interviews Helen Castor, a British historian specializing in the medieval and Tudor periods. They discuss the nature of English government in the time of Richard II and Henry IV, including its capabilities and limitations regarding law enforcement, taxation, and defense. Castor explains the roles of the king, parliament, and landed nobles, as well as the incentives that kept the system functioning. They delve into the Hundred Years' War, the deposition of Richard II, Shakespeare's portrayal of these historical figures, and the artistic patronage of the era. Castor also shares her perspective on historical disagreements, the influence of science fiction on her understanding of medieval England, and her approach to writing narrative history focused on individuals and the dynamics of power. Finally, she discusses her upcoming biography of Elizabeth I.