IMC 2018: Sessions

Session 205: Symbolism and Castles, I: Designs of Innovation, Imagination, and Romance

Monday 2 July 2018, 14.15-15.45

Sponsor:	Institute of Medieval & Early Modern Studies, Durham University
Organiser:	Heidi Richards, Department of Archaeology, Durham University
Moderator/Chair:	Heidi Richards, Department of Archaeology, Durham University
Paper 205-a	Geometry and the Cosmos: Castles as Symbols of Power (Language: English) David Rollason, Department of History, Durham University Index terms: Architecture - Secular, Politics and Diplomacy
Paper 205-b	Gendering Privacy in the Late Medieval Female Residence (Language: English) Rachel Delman, University College, University of Oxford Index terms: Architecture - Secular, Gender Studies
Paper 205-c	Castles, Magnificence, and the Display of Power (Language: English) Richard Barber, Boydell & Brewer, Woodbridge / Department of History, University of York Index terms: Architecture - Secular, Social History
Abstract	An emerging trend within the field of castle studies is bringing to light possible influences on medieval castle structures that have hitherto remained highly subjective and somewhat controversial. This session will aim to discuss the practical and functional aspects of continental and insular late medieval castle architecture while highlighting imaginative, symbolic, or mythological aspects of design. The speakers in this session will discuss themes and ideals important in medieval court culture such as geometry, romance literature, and gendered symbolism and their effects on elite architectural design. By sharing these fresh insights, we can collectively explore exciting new perspectives on medieval castle architecture.