After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal

Summary

Step into the shadows of the past with After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal, a deep dive into the historical events that continue to haunt our collective memory. Each episode peels back the layers of legend and rumor to reveal the messy, often sinister reality hidden beneath the surface of history. From the rigid courtrooms of Victorian England and the brutal witch trials of seventeenth-century Iceland to the clandestine romances and poison-laced corridors of the French aristocracy, this show is dedicated to uncovering the stories that time almost forgot. Hosted by historians Anthony Delaney and Maddy Pelling, the podcast excels at challenging popular misconceptions. Rather than settling for simple villainy, the hosts work alongside expert guests to re-examine primary sources and uncover the human struggles behind the myths. You will explore how societal anxieties, gender roles, and legal systems have historically conspired to criminalize the marginalized and turn cultural customs into targets for state-sanctioned violence. Whether they are dissecting the mechanics of an execution or uncovering secret literature hidden within ancient manuscripts, the hosts offer a nuanced, rigorous, and chilling perspective on the darker side of human behavior. If you are fascinated by the intersection of folklore, true crime, and social history, join us as we navigate the shadiest corners of history, where the truth is often far more haunting than the legends.

Updated Jul 6, 2026