If you've ever written a letter, you probably weren't thinking about who might be reading it hundreds of years in the future. You definitely weren't thinking about its historical accuracy. But in his latest book, Rewriting the First Crusade: Epistolary Culture in the Middle Ages (Boydell Press, 2024), Dr. Thomas Smith explains how medieval letters have become incredible historical sources. They crossed languages and cultures, built communities, and often blurred lines between fact and fiction. Our conversation also dives into university versus UK public school teaching, breaking down myths surrounding the medieval church, and why you really need to watch the extended cut of Kingdom of Heaven.

To find out more about Dr. Smith:

https://thomaswsmith.co.uk/

To find Dr. Smith's recent book:

https://boydellandbrewer.com/book/rewriting-the-first-crusade-9781837651757/

To follow Dr. Smith on instagram:

@medieval_tom