Northumbria AD 367-867

Speaker: Colm O'Brien

The story of the lands between the Forth and Humber from the end of the Roman period to the Viking kingdom of York is one of the most richly fascinating in British history. This is the age of Lindisfarne and of Bede; of the dramatic hills, valleys and ancient routeways that link the Irish Sea and the North Sea; of names that resonate even now: Edwin, Oswald, Hild, Cuthbert, Wilfrid; of conquest, conversion and the legacies of intellectual giants.

Join archaeologist Colm O'Brien, co-author (with Max Adams) of Northumbria AD 367-867: Earth Hall, Ring Gift and Heaven's Field, as he explores themes of landscape, power, creativity and intellect in Early Medieval Northumbria.

Hear about fresh archaeological evidence and research in historical geography which has shed light on the fascinating story of how land was managed, exploited and deployed as an expression of power by both secular and ecclesiastical forces. Colm will also give new focus to aspects such as the role of élite women in shaping politics and religion.

Come along and discover how Northumbria’s political, cultural and religious elements coalesced to forge a creative powerhouse which shaped the world we have inherited.

You may also enjoy on Tuesday 9 June.

Book sales

You can buy copies of many of our speakers’ books from Fox Lane Books, a local independent bookseller and Festival partner. In some cases, author signed bookplates are available too.

Image credit (book Jacket): Ford Maddox Brown, Saint Oswald Receiving Saint Aidan. (National Museums Liverpool / Bridgeman Images)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Please ensure you use the correct email address as this is where your ticket will be sent. If you do not provide the correct address, you will not receive the acknowledgement email or ticket.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher York Festival of Ideas