The Hymn of Kassiani

Kassiani is one of only two women to have been written about from the Byzantine era, which is a somewhat forgotten about period in history. She is most famously known for quipping at the Emperor Theophilos at a bridal show before going on to become an abbess, poet and hymnographer, whose songs are still sung in Greek Orthodox Churches today. Despite being from a distant time, her character shines through in her work. Her quick-witted humour and somewhat rebellious one liners are what brought her to Frank's attention including the phrase "I hate silence, when it is time to speak". Frank recruits the help of self-professed ‘Byzantinist’ and Professor Liz James from the University of Sussex to tell the story behind the song The Hymn of Kassiani.You can pre-order Frank's album No Man's Land hereThis episode was produced by Hayley Clarke and the executive producer was Peggy Sutton. There was additional production from Paul Smith, Steve Ackerman, Josh Gibbs and Charlie Caplowe. Tales from No Man’s Land is produced by Frank Turner, Xtra Mile Recordings and Somethin’ Else. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Om Podcasten

Telling the stories of rock & roll pioneer Sister Rosetta Tharpe, dance hall singer Dora Hand, WW1 spy Mata Hari and more, singer-songwriter Frank Turner talks to historians, poets and fellow musicians about twelve historical women who have been largely forgotten but should be celebrated. And his mum. Every Wednesday, starting on July 3rd, Frank will release a new song and explore the story behind it in a new episode of the podcast. No Man’s Land the album is available for pre-order now. A Frank Turner, Xtra Mile Recordings and Somethin’ Else production.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.