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Centre for Medieval Studies
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Study groups

We have a range of study groups that provide informal, collaborative forums for students and researchers to develop their language skills and engage with medieval texts.

Looking to join us? You can join any of our study groups by contacting the office at cms-office@york.ac.uk.

Old Norse

  • Old Norse Study Group

    • Focus: informal language development and reading of sagas, mythology, and poetry.

    • Schedule: meets in Semester 2.

    • Level: open to those looking to develop existing skills; vocabulary and dictionaries are provided.

  • The Old Norse Thing

    • Focus: a reading group centered on discussion and sharing thoughts on Scandinavian texts.

    • Schedule: meets twice per semester.

    • Level: all are welcome; texts are read in translation and no prior expertise or language skills are required.

European medieval languages

  • Old English Study Group

    • Focus: technical sessions on editing, transcription, and working with scans of original manuscripts.

    • Schedule: meets in Semester 2.

    • Level: inclusive of all skill levels, with content designed for both beginners and advanced users.

  • Old French Study Group

    • Focus: exploration of a wide range of texts and periods to expand knowledge of the language.

    • Schedule: meets in Semester 2.

    • Level: open to all, from beginners to those with existing knowledge.

  • Latin Study Groups

    • Focus: informal practice to reinforce and continue formal tuition from the previous semester.

    • Schedule: six meetings per group in Semester 2.

    • Level: three distinct tiers available: beginner, intermediate, and advanced.

Old English

The Beowulf Reading Group

  • Focus: a deep dive into the 3,000-line Old English poem, its Christian themes, and its pagan past.

  • Schedule: meets in Semester 2.

  • Level: open to all; the text is read in translation, though original Old English excerpts are occasionally examined.

Viking Studies Research Group

  • Focus: research-led talks featuring prominent scholars covering all aspects of the Viking Age.

  • Schedule: regular sessions throughout the year.

  • Level: open to anyone interested in staying up to date with the latest academic research.

More details can be found on the Viking Studies Research Group (vikingstudies.net).

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