In this podcast, the host shares tips on how to become a better medievalist in just five minutes. They discuss the importance of learning a second language, discerning reliable information, and interdisciplinary work in medieval studies. They also talk about the book of the month on the Templars, the discovery of Otto the Great's death spot, and medieval jokes. The podcast also highlights the benefits of supporting the show through Patreon and the host's new book available for pre-order.
Learning different languages is essential for understanding medieval texts and primary sources.
Following medievalists on social media provides exposure to discussions and expertise in the field.
Reading primary sources, such as manuscripts, is crucial for a deeper understanding of the medieval world.
Sharing love, knowledge, and enthusiasm for medieval history with others is important for creating a positive impact.
The podcast includes news about recent archaeological discoveries and historical humor.
Deep dives
Becoming a Five-Minute Medievalist
In this episode, the host discusses how to become a better medievalist in just five minutes a day. The host emphasizes the importance of learning languages, particularly Latin for studying Western Europe, but also mentions the value of learning other romance languages or languages like Arabic and Persian. Following medievalists on social media is another suggestion, as it allows for exposure to discussions, research, and expertise in the field. Reading primary sources is highlighted as essential for understanding the Middle Ages, with resources like the Teams Middle English Text series and translations from various publishers recommended. The host also encourages listeners to explore digitized manuscripts and material objects, appreciating the effort and history behind them. Finally, the episode emphasizes the significance of sharing one's love, enthusiasm, and knowledge of medieval history with others.
Understanding Language and Translation
The host underscores the importance of learning different languages to better understand and appreciate medieval texts and primary sources. The episode specifically recommends DuoLingo as a helpful resource for language learning. Knowing a second language, such as Latin or a romance language, aids in decoding and understanding primary sources. While translation tools are useful, having some understanding of the language assists in grasping meaning and ensuring a more accurate translation. The episode suggests translators known for their energetic and reliable work, such as Royal Yousuf for Beowulf and J.R.R. Tolkien for Sir Gawain and the Green Knight.
Engaging with Medievalists on Social Media
The episode emphasizes the importance of following medievalists on social media platforms, particularly Twitter and Medieval TikTok. This allows for exposure to discussions, research, and expertise in the field. The host mentions the use of hashtags like #medievaltwitter and #medievalsquad to find and engage with the medieval community on social media. However, the episode also highlights the need for discernment in assessing the credibility of scholars and their information shared. It urges listeners to follow established historians and recommends being cautious of rehashed myths or oversimplified versions of medieval history.
Reading Primary Sources and Examining Manuscripts
The episode highlights the value of reading primary sources, manuscripts written by the people of the time, in order to gain a deeper understanding of the medieval world. The host recommends online resources like the Teams Middle English Text series for reading Middle English texts, including Robin Hood ballads. Additionally, translations from reliable publishers such as Penguin Classics and Broadview Press are suggested. The episode highlights the accessibility of digitized manuscripts and material objects, such as those found on the E-Codices website or in museum collections. Examining manuscripts allows for a closer look at the craftsmanship, materials, and cultural context surrounding their creation.
Spreading the Love for Medieval History
The episode focuses on the importance of sharing one's love, knowledge, and enthusiasm for medieval history with others. Listeners are encouraged to share information, resources, and questions among social media groups and online communities. Sharing knowledge with friends, family, and colleagues is also emphasized, and the episode suggests creating book clubs or groups to foster discussions and increased understanding. The host underscores the significance of interdisciplinary sharing, encouraging those in non-humanities fields to engage with and share medieval knowledge within their disciplines. Finally, the episode emphasizes the positive impact of sharing and the need to combat harmful uses of medieval history by promoting its beauty and value.
Archaeological Discovery of Otto the Great's Death Location
In this episode, a recent archaeological discovery is discussed, revealing the potential location of Otto the Great's death. Archaeologists have found ruins of a church where Otto the Great died, as well as a hall believed to be the place of his death. It is noted that while he was buried elsewhere, his heart and inner organs were left behind in the area. This discovery sheds light on the life and death of Otto the Great, the founder of the Holy Roman Empire, and offers insights into medieval burial practices.
The Earliest English Joke Book
The episode shares news about the earliest known English joke book, thanks to the work of printer William Caxton in the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Some jokes from the book are mentioned, ranging from puns to wordplay. The discussion emphasizes the importance of looking at historical humor and how it provides insight into the social and cultural contexts of the time.
Book Club and New Publications
The episode mentions the medievalist.net Patreon Book Club, featuring Steve Tibble's book on the Templars as the special book of the month. The host encourages listeners to support indie podcasters and historians through Patreon. Additionally, the episode includes news about the host's new books, 'The Five Minute Medievalist' and 'The Five Minute Medievalist's Guide to Surviving the Zombie Apocalypse,' now available on medievalist.net's Patreon.
Summary Conclusion
The episode concludes by thanking listeners for their support and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to share the love of medieval history. The host encourages everyone to continue their journey of becoming better medievalists by committing to five minutes a day exploring the language, following medievalists on social media, reading primary sources, examining manuscripts and material objects, and sharing their passion and knowledge with others.
This week, in celebration of her first two books becoming available on Patreon, Danièle discusses five ways to become a better medievalist, five minutes at a time.
