Late Antiquity

Research in Late Antiquity explores the disintegration of the Roman Empire, which encompassed the entire Mediterranean at the beginning of the period, and the formation of new, more fragmented, political entities in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East; it investigates the rise, spread and institutionalisation of new monotheist religions (Christianity and Islam); and it assesses societal changes that profoundly reshaped the composition and organisation of communities. In addition, the last few years have seen a proliferation of scientific approaches that have contributed to advance research on environmental history (the late antique ‘little ice age’) and the study of disease (the ‘Justinianic plague’).

Durham’s History Department has developed a particular strength in the study of Late Antiquity, with research expertise in political history, religious history, legal history, and visual and intellectual culture. The cluster also connects with colleagues in other departments Classics and Ancient History, Archaeology, Theology, and Philosophy. The cluster hosts regular reading groups and seminars with internal and external contributors to foster a dynamic and constructive environment to explore new theoretical and methodological approaches, discuss work in progress, think about opportunities for publication and (collaborative) funding applications, and provide a space for PGR students to get in contact with more senior colleagues on a regular basis.

The cluster is connected to the Centre for Studies in the Late Ancient World (CS-LAW), housed in IMEMS.

Members:

• Dr Nadine Viermann
• Dr Harry Mawdsley
• Dr Catherine-Rose Hailstone
• Dr Daisy Livingston
• Professor Francis Watson
• Dr Alberto Rigolio