Ep 5. Episode 5

Horrible Histories is a British historical sketch comedy television show for children. This Emmy award winning show is hugely popular for its funny, factual and exaggerated stories about significant times in history.

Season 5 Episode 5 continues to explore history, narrating various stories associated with different cultures and eras. The episode titled "Episode 5" is a compilation of several sketches that aim to teach young viewers about the intriguing and often bizarre events and characters that shaped our world.

The episode starts off with "Historical Shopping Channel" which presents the viewers with hilarious advertisements of incredible inventions and everyday objects from the past. From a Roman 'Grappling Hook' to a Victorian perambulator, these unbelievable devices are explored through the show’s comical advertising style.

Next, is "Stupid Deaths" that teaches children about the notable people who’ve died in really silly ways. Here, viewers learn about the story of Edmund II of England, who was killed by a thief while visiting a latrine. This sequence makes learning about the best deaths in history, a fun and engaging experience.

The next skit is called "Historical Wife Swap" and as the name suggests, it’s a historical take on the reality TV show "Wife Swap". In this sketch, an inquisitive Tudor housewife swaps lives with an aristocratic lady in the nineteenth century who is engaged to be married. It highlights the differences between two women from two different time periods.

After this, viewers get to see the "Craftsman Parody", which parodies the popular US TV show "Hoarders" and sheds light on the unusual items hoarders in medieval times would collect and keep as a treasure.

Following this, we see a musical skit, "News Theme", which gives a musical glimpse into how the news was invented. The skit pokes fun at the evolution of news reporting, covering everything from banging a mug, to yelling "extra, extra!".

Next, we have "Word Rhyme", where the show's host adopts historic characters and speaks in rhyme with a snippet of their history. Examples include rhyming couplets about Nero's fiddling and Mary Queen of Scots' execution. It is both educational and entertaining.

After that is "Scary Stories" that is a parody of popular horror podcasts, and tells hair-raising stories about the past. This skit gives a satirical look into the world of fictionalized horror podcasts, examining notable tragic figures from history.

The next sketch, titled "Historical Hospital," takes the viewers on a journey through the history of medicine. It showcases the different medical treatments people would have used in the past, which are in stark contrast to modern-day practices.

The episode ends with "The Mad Axeman of Song" which is a catchy pop song that explores the true story of Peter Kurten, one of the most infamous serial killers in history. This final song is smart, witty, and sure to catch viewers' attention.

Overall, Horrible Histories Season 5 Episode 5 offers a fun and educational approach to learning about fascinating historic events. The show effectively combines humour, music, and storytelling to bring history to life in a unique and engaging way.