Serial Murderers of Medieval France
Sep 4, 2026 · 1h 3m
Summary
This episode explores notorious serial murder cases in medieval and early modern France, examining figures like Gilles de Rais, the Rue de la Maroisterie barber, and alleged werewolves such as Gilles Garnier. The host analyzes how society interpreted these atrocities through lenses of superstition, demonology, and folklore rather than modern psychology. By discussing historical evidence and myth, the episode reveals how medieval justice responded to unimaginable evil with harsh punishments and attempts to erase the criminals' memories.
Topics discussed
Introduction to medieval serial killers and channel support
Conomor: The 6th-century Breton warlord and Bluebeard archetype
The Rue de la Maroquinerie: Pastry cook and barber murder mystery
Gilles de Rais: Joan of Arc's companion and child murderer
Pierre Burgau and Michel Verdun: Early werewolf cannibalism case
Gilles Garnier: The Werewolf of Dol and his cannibalistic crimes
The Tailor of Châlons: Erased from history for heinous crimes
Analysis: Medieval justice, superstition, and the concept of serial killing
Conclusion and patron acknowledgments
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