I have a background in both history and archaeology and my research interests have focused on landscape history, chiefly that of medieval forests and deer parks, each of which is currently a vibrant topic of historical study. I am also interested in the archaeology and history of gender, and my earliest publications explored the use of space in high-status buildings, with particular attention to what this can reveal about medieval gender ideologies. These interests underpin my teaching, in that I encourage students to use material culture (e.g. the built environment, designed landscapes, art, and other cultural artefacts) as historical ‘evidence’, alongside written sources. Hence my level five module ‘The Material World’ explores various aspects of material culture including Chichester’s historic buildings. I also teach the module ‘The Physical Past’ at level six, which allows students to analyse local landscapes such as Chichester Cemetery, Arundel Castle, and the university campus itself, as cultural artefacts. I also teach modules in late-medieval history at all levels, and am currently programme leader for the BA (Hons) Medieval and Early Modern History.

History and Politics