Irish History At The Guild: Irish Kings And Nobility Of The Middle Ages

The Kings, princes and nobility of the Gaelic Kingdoms and tuatha - clan territories -  in Ireland in the Middle Ages provide an exciting and fascinating insight into the early rulers of this turbulent era. This course will explain the complex structure of this ruling elite,  the nature of kingship, myths and legends associated with the earliest rulers, and the eventual decline of their dominance as English rule, and the influence of the Anglo-Irish nobility, took hold, with a later 'Gaelic Resurgence' reclaiming some power for the ancient ruling clans. The terminology  used to define their status, and its significance  - such as overking of kings, chieftain, and petty king, and their relationships to each other - both familial ties and as allies and rivals - will be explored. The influence of the Gaelic lords and chieftans on Irish culture of the day, such as their sponsorship of bards, offers a balance to their militaristic activities. Relationships beyond Ireland, with other rulers and nations, will be included.

This is a world full of adventure, excitement, peril and towering personalities. You are invited to time travel back to Medieval Ireland to sample it for yourself!

WORDS OF PRAISE FOR IRISH HISTORY AT THE GUILD:

'Fascinating!'  'Interesting and gripping' 'Such an interesting course!'

How the course is delivered: The course will consist of two hour, weekly Zoom classes, with follow-up emails summarizing each session, and offering links, copies of any slides used, and any discussion points raised. Email support from the tutor is always available.

Your tutor

The tutor, Gill Rossini, is a highly experienced and published historian who  has a long standing and strong interest in the history of the six 'Celtic Nations'. She has taught for the University of Aberystwyth and has experience of tracing her own Irish ancestry. She is an expert speaker and trainer for the historical research website Find My Past, a popular public speaker, and regular contributor to the BBC magazine Who Do you Think You Are.