The University of Winchester has launched a research centre to lead innovative research into medieval history.
The Centre for Medieval and Renaissance Research brings together scholars of different disciplines from across the University to enhance understanding of the British Isles and wider world from the end of the Classical Period to 1600.
Encompassing academics from History, Archaeology, Theology and English, members of the Centre have particular expertise in Anglo-Saxon and earlier medieval history and in late medieval England and Europe. They have previously collaborated on events and projects with the Hampshire Cultural Trust, including the Royal Blood Lecture series; Winchester City Council; Hyde 900 and Hampshire Pride. The Centre is involved with a number of high profile projects, including the Leverhulme Trust-funded project Kingship, Court and Society. It also has close ties with the University’s own Royal Studies Network, which organises the annual Kings and Queens Conference and publishes the peer-reviewed open-access Royal Studies Journal.
In addition to acting as a driver for academic research, the new Centre will host a variety of events, including the annual Medieval Studies Day, which sees Winchester lecturers deliver accessible mini-lectures on their areas of expertise for the general public.
The Centre also looks to benefit research students at the University, providing support and opportunities for students to discuss their work with a wider audience.
Gordon McKelvie, Lecturer in Late Medieval History, said: “We are delighted to be launching this research centre, which promises to showcase one of the University’s research areas of great strength in research and teaching. The Centre promises to inspire and support future research and to support us in bringing this academic insight to the general public.”
The Centre for Medieval and Renaissance Research formally launched at an event on Thursday 10 May. The event featured keynote talks from two distinguished Winchester historians, Professor Emeritus of History Barbara Yorke and Professor Emeritus of History Michael Hicks, who discussed their research on early Anglo-Saxon kingship and late medieval England respectively.
Find out more about the Centre for Medieval History and Renaissance and its programme of events at: www.winchester.ac.uk/CMRR