In this public lecture, Dr Benjamin Pohl (University of Bristol, project PI) will explore how and why medieval Benedictine abbots engaged first-hand with the writing of history by recording the traditions and collective memories of their monastic communities.
Which resources were available to these abbot-historians that ordinary monks did not have at their disposal? What difference did it make when the monastic historian was himself an abbot? Was it common for medieval abbots to pick up the pen, or was it an exception?
The public lecture will take place at Downside Abbey Visitor Centre on Thursday 27 February 2020, 5pm. Attendance is free and refreshments will be available.
Booking for the event is essential by emailing Steve Parsons sparsons@downside.co.uk or calling 01761 235323. Further details available here: https://www.downsideabbey.co.uk/shop/events/library-events/public-lecture-abbots-as-historians/
