Medieval

‘Alfred Inciting the Saxons to Prevent the Landing of the Danes' by George Frederic Watts, reproduced in the Illustrated London News, 17 July 1847. Public Domain.

Arguing with the Dead

Medieval historians are a small band. Departed greats such as James Campbell remain with us as long as we seek their opinions.

Henry VI of England arrives in France and is crowned king of France, c. 1450-1470. Koninklijke Bibliotheek. Public Domain.

How French Was Medieval England?

The Norman Conquest brought French kings, language and culture across the Channel. What did that mean for medieval England?

Two Templar Knights on one horse, symbol of the Knights Templar, illustration from Matthew Paris' 'Historia Anglorum', 1250-54. © British Library Board. All Rights Reserved/Bridgeman Images.

The True Knights Templar

The Knights Templar’s modern reputation is a myth that disguises their role as state-builders and diplomats.

Sea-faring Norseman, illuminated illustration from the Miscellany on the Life of St. Edmund, c.1130.

Medieval Icelandic Feasts

In the Icelandic sagas communal feasting served as cornerstone of celebration. A thousand years on, these cautionary tales still offer sage advice for the Yule festivities.

The Battle of Verneuil from the Vigiles du roi Charles VII, c. 1484. Bibliothèque nationale de France. Public Domain.

‘The Hundred Years War Vol 5’ by Jonathan Sumption review

The Hundred Years War Vol 5: Triumph and Illusion by Jonathan Sumption charts the English downfall and France’s triumph to bring the epic five-volume history to its conclusion.

Impact: Saint Edmund of Abingdon bringing about the reconciliation of Gilbert Marshal and Henry III, from Matthew Paris’ Historia Anglorum, 1250s. © British Library Board/Bridgeman Images.

Edmund of Abingdon’s Dream Job

How a vision led Edmund of Abingdon to elevate the role of Medieval teacher to saintly levels.

Jakob von Wart taking his bath, from the Codex Manesse, Switzerland, c.1305-40. The Protected Art Archive/Alamy Stock Photo

The Flies, Fleas and Rotting Flesh of Medieval Monks

Repulsive revelations of bodily infestations were viewed by some in medieval Europe as proof of sanctity. But for most, parasites were just plain disgusting.

St. Francis of Assisi showing his stigmata in an illustrated manuscript, c. 1490.

The Death of St Francis of Assisi

St Francis of Assisi died on 4 October 1226, leaving behind the question of how we venerate a saint who resisted veneration.

Carving of medieval university students on the tomb of the scholar Giovanni da Legnano, Bologna, 14th century.

The Medieval University Experience

The experiences of medieval university students are familiar: they missed their mothers, asked for money and got into trouble.

Angevin family tree showing Henry II and his children. From left: William, Henry, Richard, Matilda, Geoffrey, Eleanor, Joan and John.

How Henry II Survived the Great Rebellion

In 1173 the Angevin empire looked set to fall, facing rebellion on all sides. Against incredible odds Henry II won a decisive victory, silencing kings, lords – and his own children.