How Beer Came to Medieval England
Dutch immigrants brought hopped beer to medieval England in the 14th century, gradually transforming English brewing and drinking habits.
New Medieval Books: De Observatione Ciborum
What did people eat in the early Middle Ages? Or, more precisely, what were they advised to eat? This sixth-century text, presented here in an edited translation, offers dietary advice and recipes intended for a Frankish ruler.
The Man Who Should Have Lost the Battle of Hastings
Kelly DeVries tells the remarkable story of Swegen Godwinson, whose murder, scandals and exile left his younger brother Harold to face William the Conqueror at Hastings.
10 Open-Access Medieval Studies Articles Published in August 2026
Read 10 open-access medieval studies articles published in August 2026, covering Viking trade, medieval floods, political power, religion and more.
How Human Trafficking Fuelled Medieval Trade
A thousand years ago, merchants from medieval Italy were bringing expensive silks, spices and other luxury goods home from the wealthy cities of…
How Did the Medieval Economy Really Work? Chris Wickham Explains
In one of his key works, the late historian Chris Wickham explains how medieval economies worked and the roles of peasants, markets and feudalism.
New Medieval Books: After Rumi
The 13th-century mystic Rumi had a profound influence on Sufism, the mystical tradition of Islam. This book explores the religious community that emerged from his teachings and examines the role his followers played in the religious life of Ottoman Anatolia.
The Dirty Business of Making Leather in the Middle Ages
Discover the dirty business of medieval leather-making, from tanning hides with urine and dung to the pollution caused by tanneries in medieval towns.
A King in Crisis: Why King John Lost His Subjects’ Loyalty
Why did King John lose his subjects’ loyalty? His troubled reign brought Magna Carta, baronial rebellion and a foreign invasion that threatened his dynasty.
The Rogue Hospitallers: Criminals on Crusade
Dr Steve Tibble takes us on a riotous tour of the Hospitallers who went rogue in the Holy Land…interspersed with hilarious reminisces of…
Symeon the New Theologian: Queer Desire in Devotional Poetry, with Derek Krueger
A conversation with Derek Krueger on homoerotic language and imagery in the works of the eleventh-century writer Symeon the New Theologian. These passages are unusual enough that earlier editors and scholars were made uncomfortable about them. We discuss their devotional context but also the broader context of homoeroticism and homophobia in the monastic world of that time.
Contracts for War: How Medieval Bishops Raised Armies
How did medieval bishops raise armies for war? David Bachrach reveals how military contracts helped them secure the troops their kings demanded.
Online Course: Demonic Possessions and Exorcisms in Medieval Christian Europe
Starting October 10th: Explore the fascinating occurrences of demonic possession and exorcism in medieval Christian Europe through vivid accounts of how medieval people and communities experienced and understood evil, illness, social cohesion, and the supernatural.
New Medieval Books: The Knights Templar
Few organisations in history have achieved as much fame, or infamy, as the Knights Templar. This book introduces you to their story, from their founding during the Crusades to their dramatic downfall.
“The Way of Carnal Lust”: The Nun Who Faked Her Own Death
In 1318, Joan of Leeds faked her death and fled her convent. Uncover the scandal, her daring escape and the unanswered questions about her fate.
Online Course: Religion and Faith in the European Middle Ages
Starting October 8th: Explore 700 years of religious tradition in medieval Europe including beliefs, heresies, and reforms.
Bow & Blade: Q&A #15 – Decisive Battles of the Middle Ages
This episode of Bow & Blade was recorded live at the 2026 International Medieval Congress at the University of Leeds. Kelly and Michael answer questions including was Agincourt the most decisive battle of the period, what battle do they find most useful to teach, and who was the most effective general of the Middle Ages?
New Medieval Books: Warfare in the Global Middle Ages
Whether you were a military commander in medieval England or Japan, you would have faced many of the same challenges of organisation, logistics, and tactics. This book takes a comparative approach to medieval warfare, examining how armies fought and operated across different parts of the medieval world.
Medieval Massacres That Were Like the Red Wedding
From deadly banquets to wedding betrayals, discover 15 medieval massacres and murders that recall the infamous Red Wedding.
What Did Medieval Food Taste Like?
Explore the flavours of medieval food, from exotic spices and elaborate dishes to the unusual ingredients that delighted diners in the Middle Ages.
25 Pieces of Wisdom from Medieval Arabic Poetry
Across the medieval world we can find various writings aimed at giving advice and wisdom. Here is some poetic wisdom from the ninth-century Middle East.
New Medieval Books: The First Print Era
Medieval China is where printing was first invented. But what kinds of works were printed there? This book focuses on the 10th to 12th centuries, revealing how the state made use of this technology and how the spread of the printed word transformed Chinese culture.
Sports and Games in Medieval London
Discover the sports and games enjoyed by medieval Londoners, from jousting and wrestling to ball games, cockfighting and ice skating.
Edward I of England: Just King or Ruthless Tyrant?
From legal reform and royal government to the conquest of Wales and war in Scotland, explore the turbulent reign of Edward I.