Hope Williard

Hope Williard, a scholar of medieval history, dives into the life of Venantius Fortunatus, an early medieval poet who thrived amidst political chaos in sixth century Gaul. She discusses the importance of friendship and patronage in Fortunatus's work, revealing how he crafted social networks through poetry. Williard also explores the poet's liminal position between classical and medieval culture and how his connections with powerful figures like Queen Radigund influenced his career. Get ready for a fresh take on Merovingian history!