Past: Kent Library Athenaeum Event

Kent Library will be hosting its next Athenaeum event on Wednesday, September 30 from noon to 1:00 in Sadie’s Place on the main floor of the library. This talk will be given by Dr. Vicky McAlister, from the Department of History and is titled “The Castles of Late Medieval Ireland: Myth and Reality.” For most people, thinking about castles conjures images of lords and ladies, of authority and of military might. There is more to them than at first meets the eye, though – at the heart of medieval society, their functions and roles give us unparalleled insight into the events of long ago. Asking ‘what is a castle?’ often leads us to more questions than answers, with new research emerging all the time to provide insightful context to the lives of ordinary medieval people. This talk will look at some of the common myths surrounding castles, showing that the reality is far more complex and fascinating than Hollywood would have you believe. As the subject of ongoing research, the focus and case studies for the talk will come from medieval Ireland.

The event is free and open to all students, faculty, staff, and the public. Snacks will be provided.