Widow City with Anna Wainwright

Widow City with Anna Wainwright

July 8, 2026 · 51 min · Episode 349

About this episode

This episode explores the experiences of Italian widows in the fifteenth century and their impact on politics and literature.

Although death is just a natural and expected part of life – especially in the Middle Ages – it’s also an event that forever alters the lives of those left behind. For medieval women, widowhood changed everything. This week, Danièle speaks with Anna Wainwright about what it was like to be an Italian widow in the fifteenth century, how widowhood and politics went together, and the rise of widows as popular writers. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of listeners like you! To find out how to help spread the joy of medieval history, please visit patreon.com/themedievalpodcast

More episodes of The Medieval Podcast

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the The Medieval Podcast podcast page.