Change and Revolution

How does a community form? How does it survive and adapt to change? Myths and legends have played an integral part in establishing the rules of society and the punishments for those who break them. The Pied Piper of Hamelin is an old tale of social norms ignored and punished. This episode will explore the devastating historical events that lay behind it. We also investigate the longevity of legendary outlaw Robin Hood and examine how stories of magic and malice led to the horrific witch trials of Bamberg, Germany. Also explored is the bizarre Victorian urban legend of Spring-Heeled Jack and how it was a nightmarish response to rapid social change in 19th century Britain.