What if your life depended on the King touching your neck? For centuries, people in medieval and early modern England and France believed their monarchs had a divine healing power, the ability to cure disease with a simple touch. In this royal history documentary from History Calling, we uncover the fascinating truth behind Touching for the King’s Evil, a ritual said to heal scrofula (a disease of the lymph nodes).
Was this the ultimate royal superpower? Why did people think the King’s touch worked (or the Queen's) and how did it become one of the most bizarre and enduring practices in monarchical history?
We trace the ritual’s origins from the ancient world to Robert II of France and Edward the Confessor and explore how it was used by rulers like Mary I of England. Discover whether it was ever called Touching for the Queen’s Evil, how William Shakespeare referenced it, and why special coins called Angels, or touch pieces, were given to those touched.
This wasn’t just about religion; it was political theatre reinforcing the divine right of kings and queens. You'll also find out who was the last monarch to perform the ceremony, and why Jacobite pretenders kept the tradition alive.
Featuring rare historical images, descriptions of ceremonial healing rituals, and eyewitness accounts, including one from a young Samuel Johnson, this video explores the strange intersection of faith, power, superstition, and royal propaganda.
If you’re fascinated by strange royal traditions, medieval medicine, or the mythology of monarchy, this is the video for you, as we examine if the royal touch has magical powers.
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