Lauren Johnson

Passionate about history, whether researching, interpreting or telling others about it, I have a Double First degree and Masters from Oxford University.

I am currently researching a history of the year 1509 (when Henry VIII acceded to the throne) for Head of Zeus, to be published in 2016.

In 2013 my debut novel The Arrow of Sherwood was published by Pen & Sword Fiction. An origin story of Robin Hood, it roots the mythical figure in the brutal, complex reality of the Twelfth Century.

As co-founder and historical consultant for Untold, a new theatre company, I advised on a production about Catalina, Catherine of Aragon's Moorish slave, which was performed in Colchester and London in Spring 2015. The company tells stories that have been marginalised in history, and finds modern resonances in tales still silenced in the present day.

I have also contributed to TV programmes: Walking Through History with Tony Robinson (C4, 2014), discussing the road to Magna Carta; and Castles (BBC4, 2015), exploring the stories of women throughout the history of these palace-fortresses.

You can hear me discussing what Magna Carta meant for medieval women on the History Today podcast.

Recently I have worked with Historic Royal Palaces (Hampton Court Palace, the Tower of London) to chair historical debates, advise on historically-focussed stories for forthcoming projects and research and create missions for children.

My 'day job' is being the Research Manager for Past Pleasures Ltd, performing live costumed interpretation at major heritage sites across Britain. As Research Manager I undertake research on a wide range of topics for a team of more than 80 interpreters.

Women's History and the Medieval period are my favourite areas of study.