All Matters Medieval
If you’ve ever wanted to argue about the Peasants’ Revolt, learn what DNA can tell us about medieval populations, or debate whether a particular chronicler can be trusted, All Matters Medieval might be for you.
The group grew out of a long-running course taught by Roger Wickson and moved online during COVID, using Google Meet. What started as a lecture format has since evolved: sessions are now discussion-led, with a different member introducing the theme each time. The group is, by their own admission, a vocal one. Everyone brings their own knowledge to the table, and it’s normal to run out of time long before the discussion runs out of steam.
Topics range across the whole medieval period, roughly 600 to 1500 CE, and cover far more than kings and castles. Recent sessions have included medieval embroidery, pilgrimage routes, the origins of Parliament, and even the astronomy of the period, each one led by whoever in the group happens to have the enthusiasm (and sometimes the expertise) for it.
This autumn’s programme includes sessions on how to assess the reliability of historical sources, medieval music, medieval justice and, timed to the Bayeux Tapestry’s visit to England and the approaching 1,000th anniversary of William the Conqueror’s birth, a look at everything 1066.
Sessions run monthly for two hours, with a tea break, entirely online, making it accessible from anywhere with a browser. The group also meets in person twice a year for lunch and to plan the year ahead.
There are no prerequisites and no cost beyond the standard U3A membership fee. The group currently has around 15 members and would love to welcome a few more.
You would be required to join the Crewe & Nantwich u3a who are offering this online group – follow link here: Crewe & Nantwich u3a
For further details please contact Lynne Jones, Membership Secretary, Crewe & Nantwich u3a. – follow link here: membership@candnu3a.org.uk