Starcast Join the waitlist
Gone Medieval

Gone Medieval

The Queer Court of William Rufus

Jun 12, 2026 · 49m

Coming soon to iPhone. Already have it? “Listen in Starcast” takes you straight there.

On this episode

About this episode

What really went on at the court of King William Rufus? William the Conqueror's son and successor was fierce and ruthless. He taxed heavily, refused to conform to the ideals of kingship, and reportedly presided over a court of extravagant young men and sexual licentiousness. But how much of Rufus's reputation was shaped by the monks that despised him? Matt Lewis is joined by Professor Tom Licence, to explore the life, reign and shocking death of a king, whose reputation remains as provocative today as it was nearly a thousand years ago. More: King Arthur's Sex Life Listen on Apple Listen on Spotify Edward II: King of Incompetence Listen on Apple Listen on Spotify Gone Medieval is presented…