Paul Mellon Centre | Britain & the World in the Middle Ages: Image & Reality

In the Middle Ages, the “British Isles” were far from insular. These islands were, in fact, places of exchange, where art, ideas, rare materials and people came together from all over the world.

This course examines Britain’s sense of place in that world, as well as its actual place in the world – in other words, image and reality – by examining medieval images themselves. Each of the course’s lectures considers one of five critical themes in Britain’s global experience and imagination, through the exploration of works of medieval art.

The first lecture, presented by the Course Convenors – Jessica Berenbeim and Lloyd de Beer, will introduce these themes and explain why they are so significant in medieval culture, as well as to our own current understanding of the Middle Ages and the history of British art.

No prior art historical knowledge is necessary.

The event will also be live-streamed via Zoom Webinar.