Medieval German Studies

Delve into eight centuries of history with Medieval German Studies, a podcast from Oxford University that explores the rich and complex world of the German-speaking lands between the years 800 and 1600. This series moves beyond a simple survey, offering deep dives into the literary, cultural, and linguistic threads that shaped a millennium. You’ll hear scholars discuss their work on specific areas like the intricate transmission of texts-from painstakingly copied manuscripts to the revolutionary arrival of early print-and the profound inward journeys found in mystical and devotional writings. The vibrant narratives of courtly literature also feature prominently, giving voice to the ideals and entertainments of the medieval court. Each episode is grounded in the unique academic environment of Oxford, drawing on the unparalleled collections of the Bodleian Libraries and fostering collaboration across disciplines through Oxford Medieval Studies and TORCH, The Oxford Research Centre in the Humanities. The conversations in this podcast naturally illuminate how these ancient texts and ideas were created, circulated, and understood, connecting them to broader questions about language, belief, and power. It’s an invitation to engage directly with ongoing research, listening as experts unpack the nuances of a distant but foundational era. For anyone curious about the medieval period, this podcast provides a focused and authoritative gateway into a fascinating field of study.