Laura Bailey

I was previously based at King’s College London, where I completed my undergraduate degree in French and History and my Master’s degree in Medieval History. The study of both French and History has encouraged me to pursue an interdisciplinary approach, exploring the application of literary methods and theories to historical research. My MA dissertation examined two Old French texts, the Roman de Fergus and the Roman de la Manekine, using literary criticism to explore ideas of identity and the Scottish nation in the thirteenth century. My PhD project will broaden the geographical focus to examine the representation of the ‘margins’ of the British Isles - Scotland, Ireland, and Wales - and the supra-textual significance of these representations, whilst also questioning the suitability of a core-periphery model.

I am passionate about public engagement with history, and have volunteered with students and young people in settings such as the Museum of London and the Jewish Museum. I have also worked with the Chalke Valley History Festival to create an exciting and engaging living history programme, encouraging people of all ages to get involved with history.