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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.

European medieval languages

  • 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.

  • 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 Norse Thing

Thing in Old Norse means ‘assembly’ or ‘meeting’. Our Old Norse Thing is a reading group, which meets three times a semester to read a range of medieval Scandinavian texts - sagas, poetry, and histories. We read in translation, and all texts are made freely available in advance. This is not a language class - instead, we will all read the text before the Thing, and then meet to share our thoughts and questions. It's a great way to read and discuss a variety of fascinating Old Norse texts. Everyone is welcome, and no prior expertise is needed! 

Viking Studies Research Group

The Viking Studies Research Group (‘VSRG’) is the place to go for all things ‘Viking’. The research group brings an exciting set of speakers to York, offering the opportunity to hear and discuss novel research from guest speakers about the Medieval North.

 

Keeping Up with the Ecclesiastics: The Church and Society in Later Medieval England Reading Group

Each week ‘KUWTE' will read and discuss a medieval text or academic paper from or about later medieval England (primarily after 1066). This group will take an interdisciplinary approach to exploring and discussing religious art, architecture, spirituality, and culture, often focusing on the relationship between the church and wider society. 

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