Medieval Studies

Uncover the dark secrets and untold stories of the Middle Ages that challenge everything you thought you knew about history.

Unlocking History: The Pioneering Mind of Rodney Hilton and the Birth of Marxist Historiography

Unlocking History: The Pioneering Mind of Rodney Hilton and the Birth of Marxist Historiography

Martin Sparks

Martin Sparks

Few historians have shaped the understanding of medieval Europe like Rodney Hilton, whose Marxist perspective on history highlighted the agency of common people in societal evolution. Hilton’s work inspires us to learn from the past to build a brighter future.

Rodney Hilton: The Man Who Challenged the Status Quo

Rodney Hilton: The Man Who Challenged the Status Quo

Vince Vanguard

Vince Vanguard

Rodney Hilton revolutionized medieval history by highlighting the role of peasants and economic structures, challenging traditional narratives and emphasizing class struggle.

Berka of Dubá: Medieval Justice or Tyranny?

Berka of Dubá: Medieval Justice or Tyranny?

Vince Vanguard

Vince Vanguard

Have you ever heard of Berka of Dubá, a 14th-century noble who ruled with an iron fist while navigating the complexities of the Bohemian kingdom? This medieval powerhouse shows that decisive leadership isn't just for the faint of heart.

Nath Í of Achonry: A Glimpse into Irish History

Nath Í of Achonry: A Glimpse into Irish History

KC Fairlight

KC Fairlight

Nath Í of Achonry played a pivotal role in the spread of Christianity in 6th century Ireland, navigating the complex social and political landscape to establish a lasting religious legacy.

The Frisian League: A Bright Chapter in Medieval European History

The Frisian League: A Bright Chapter in Medieval European History

Martin Sparks

Martin Sparks

Dive into the incredible history of the Frisian League, a unique medieval union of autonomous communities in the Low Countries, that demonstrates humanity's enduring spirit of innovation and cooperation.

The Enigmatic Life of Karl Bartsch

The Enigmatic Life of Karl Bartsch

KC Fairlight

KC Fairlight

Karl Bartsch's pioneering work in German philology and medieval studies has left a lasting impact on the appreciation and understanding of medieval German literature.

The Curious Reign of Mikhail III of Tver: A Tale of Politics and Perseverance

The Curious Reign of Mikhail III of Tver: A Tale of Politics and Perseverance

Martin Sparks

Martin Sparks

The fascinating story of Mikhail III of Tver is a tale of political intrigue and resilience in medieval Rus', as he navigated the challenging landscape of regional power dynamics.

Discovering Onneca Sánchez: A Key Figure in Medieval Iberian History

Discovering Onneca Sánchez: A Key Figure in Medieval Iberian History

Martin Sparks

Martin Sparks

Who would think medieval connections could be fascinating? Onneca Sánchez of Pamplona, a strategic matriarch, played a pivotal role in uniting Christian and Muslim worlds in medieval Iberia. Her story unveils iconic cultural synthesis and unseen influences!

Boris Kloss: The Unassuming Scholar Shaping Our Historical Understanding

Boris Kloss: The Unassuming Scholar Shaping Our Historical Understanding

Martin Sparks

Martin Sparks

Boris Kloss, a formidable historian born in Moscow in 1940, has indelibly shaped our understanding of medieval Eastern European history with his profound insights and commitment to accuracy.

The Enigmatic Master of Saint Giles: A Medieval Mystery

The Enigmatic Master of Saint Giles: A Medieval Mystery

KC Fairlight

KC Fairlight

Unravel the mystery of the Master of Saint Giles, an anonymous medieval artist whose exquisite altarpieces blend Gothic and Renaissance styles, captivating art historians and enthusiasts.

Herman VII, Margrave of Baden-Baden: The Overlooked Powerhouse of Middle Ages Europe

Herman VII, Margrave of Baden-Baden: The Overlooked Powerhouse of Middle Ages Europe

Vince Vanguard

Vince Vanguard

Meet Herman VII, Margrave of Baden-Baden, the often-overlooked yet fiercely impactful ruler of 13th century Europe. Discover his strategic prowess in a world that favored substance over spectacle.

Roger de Larcy: A Medieval Mystery Unraveled

Roger de Larcy: A Medieval Mystery Unraveled

KC Fairlight

KC Fairlight

Roger de Larcy may not be a name you've heard, but his impact on medieval England is fascinating. This Norman noble was a key player post-Conquest, navigating the shifting political and cultural sands.

The Enigmatic Roger de Larcy: A Glimpse into Medieval Nobility

The Enigmatic Roger de Larcy: A Glimpse into Medieval Nobility

Martin Sparks

Martin Sparks

Delve into the life and significance of Roger de Larcy, a medieval nobleman who played a pivotal role in the feudal system of the Middle Ages.

The Kingdom of Breifne: A Forgotten Legacy of Irish Nobility

The Kingdom of Breifne: A Forgotten Legacy of Irish Nobility

Vince Vanguard

Vince Vanguard

Uncover the rich history and enduring legacy of the Kingdom of Breifne, a symbol of Irish resilience and cultural heritage.

Unearthing Eustace de Maxwell: A Medieval Marvel

Unearthing Eustace de Maxwell: A Medieval Marvel

KC Fairlight

KC Fairlight

Eustace de Maxwell might just be the unexpected VIP your medieval history class forgot to mention. Living during the compelling and rather chaotic 13th century, he played a significant role in Scotland's struggle for independence.

The Life and Influence of William Waynflete: An Unsung Medieval Marvel

The Life and Influence of William Waynflete: An Unsung Medieval Marvel

KC Fairlight

KC Fairlight

William Waynflete, a key figure of the 15th-century, was instrumental in bridging the medieval and Renaissance eras through his work as Bishop of Winchester and his revolutionary educational reforms.

The Enigmatic Life of Martial d'Auvergne

The Enigmatic Life of Martial d'Auvergne

KC Fairlight

KC Fairlight

Uncover the intriguing life and literary contributions of Martial d'Auvergne, a medieval poet whose work offers unique insights into the Hundred Years' War and 15th-century France.

The Intriguing Path of Julius I Rátót: A Dive into Medieval Nobility

The Intriguing Path of Julius I Rátót: A Dive into Medieval Nobility

KC Fairlight

KC Fairlight

Explore the fascinating life of Julius I Rátót, a significant medieval Hungarian nobleman and statesman whose political maneuvers and steadfast loyalty to the crown amidst a turbulent historical backdrop offer intriguing insights.

Alan Rufus: The Norman Who Rose to Fame

Alan Rufus: The Norman Who Rose to Fame

KC Fairlight

KC Fairlight

Alan Rufus was a remarkable figure who rose from a noble background in Brittany to become one of the richest and most influential personalities in Norman England. His story entwines ambition, wealth, and the politics of the post-Norman Conquest era.

Alfonso IV of León: The King of the Reclusive Throne

Alfonso IV of León: The King of the Reclusive Throne

Martin Sparks

Martin Sparks

Meet Alfonso IV of León, the king who swapped his throne for the solitude of monastic life. Born in 890 AD, Alfonso left an indelible mark during his brief reign in the Kingdom of León, bringing unique reflections on power, choice, and personal conviction.

The Intriguing Life of John FitzGeoffrey: An Unraveled Medieval Mystery

The Intriguing Life of John FitzGeoffrey: An Unraveled Medieval Mystery

Martin Sparks

Martin Sparks

John FitzGeoffrey wasn't just a 13th-century noble—he was a pivotal player navigating the political puzzle of medieval England, whose life illustrates timeless lessons in leadership and diplomacy.

Paul Viollet: The Legal Luminary of 19th Century France

Paul Viollet: The Legal Luminary of 19th Century France

Martin Sparks

Martin Sparks

Paul Viollet, a 19th-century French legal historian, revolutionized the understanding of medieval law and its impact on modern legal systems through his extensive research and teaching.

The Geats: A Glimpse into an Ancient Scandinavian Tribe

The Geats: A Glimpse into an Ancient Scandinavian Tribe

KC Fairlight

KC Fairlight

Uncover the history and cultural significance of the Geats, an ancient Scandinavian tribe known from the epic poem 'Beowulf' and their role in the formation of the Swedish nation.

The Year 1136: A Medieval Tapestry of Events

The Year 1136: A Medieval Tapestry of Events

Martin Sparks

Martin Sparks

The year 1136 was marked by pivotal medieval events including the English civil war known as The Anarchy, the cultural and military shifts of the Reconquista, and the literary impact of Geoffrey of Monmouth's 'Historia Regum Britanniae'.