Speaker: Dr Alexander Thomas
A treasure of Rochester Cathedral and formerly of the Medway Archives, the Textus Roffensis was created by
It is an example of a 12th century AD codex diplomaticus.
The Textus is often known as an exclusive encyclopaedia of Anglo-Saxon and early Kentish law code texts.
It is one of just 2 manuscripts to only contain the Peace of Edward and Guthrum (EGu).
For centuries this was thought to be a genuine Viking Age treaty text, but EGu is in fact an infamous forgery
This lecture will explore the Textus itself as well as the impact of the fake text on contemporary research.
About the speaker
Dr Alexander Thomas is an independent historical and archaeological early career researcher of the early medieval period.
Alexander also serves as webmaster for the Friends of Medway Archives (FOMA).
Educated at Bristol University, his PhD in Archaeology and Anthropology examined the archaeological and manuscript landscapes of the late 9th century AD Danelaw Boundary.
Alexander’s current research interests focus on the governance of Viking age England from around the late 8th century AD up to around 1200 AD.
He is currently writing his first book for Amsterdam University Press which will look at the historical and archaeological evidence for the Danelaw.
The book is due to be published in early 2025.
The MAC spring lecture series
This is one of 6 talks in the Medway Archives Centre (MAC) spring lecture series.
Each talk costs £4 per ticket or you can book a space to all 6 talks for £20.
To book, visit the Medway Archives Centre events page.