IMC 2026: Sessions
Session 1020: Gender, Speech, and Knowledge in Later Medieval England
Wednesday 8 July 2026, 09:00-10:30
| Sponsor: | Centre for Medieval Studies, University of Exeter |
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| Organisers: | Helen Birkett, Department of Archaeology & History, University of Exeter Bronach Kane, School of History, Archaeology & Religion / Ysgol Hanes, Archaeoleg a Chrefydd, Cardiff University / Prifysgol Caerdydd |
| Moderator/Chair: | Helen Lacey, Mansfield College, University of Oxford |
| Paper 1020-a | Informing the Laity: The Oral Dissemination of Information by Royal and Ecclesiastical Authorities (Language: English) Index terms: Administration, Gender Studies, Literacy and Orality |
| Paper 1020-b | News, Politics, and the Female Voice (Language: English) Index terms: Gender Studies, Literacy and Orality, Politics and Diplomacy, Social History |
| Paper 1020-c | 'Let's Talk about Sex, Baby': Women, Sex, and Orality in Late Medieval England (Language: English) Index terms: Daily Life, Gender Studies, Literacy and Orality, Social History |
| Abstract | This session investigates the content and spaces of male and/or female speech in later medieval England. We will discuss the circulation of information, including official announcements, rumour, and news, and consider the social and cultural norms of conversation, particularly within same-sex groups. Our analysis of gendered speech will also consider its relationship to the construction and transmission of different forms of knowledge. Felicity Hill will explore the oral communication of information from authorities to male and female audiences. Helen Birkett will consider the extent to which women's engagement with contemporary news and politics was permitted within the constraints of a patriarchal society. Finally, Bronach Kane will focus on women's talk, particularly the sharing of personal and intimate knowledge among social equals and across generations. |