In this episode of pplpod, we dig into the Battle of Agincourt, one of the most famous military victories in English history and one of the messiest realities behind the medieval war myth. The episode begins with Henry V’s claim to the French throne, the failed negotiations with France, the double subsidy granted by Parliament, and the 1415 invasion that began with the siege of Harfleur. What looked like a bold campaign quickly became a disaster as disease, especially dysentery, tore through the English army. Instead of sailing home after Harfleur fell, Henry made the risky decision to march his weakened force across hostile territory toward Calais, forcing a final confrontation with the French near the woods of Agincourt.

The episode also breaks down why the battle unfolded the way it did: the narrow battlefield, the dense woods, the rain- ...