The Book of Kells: Exploring an Irish Medieval Masterpiece

Explore the history of Ireland using the remarkable Book of Kells

The Book of Kells manuscript, housed at Trinity College Dublin is world famous - it attracts almost one million visitors a year. But what can this book tell us about Irish history? And what significance is the manuscript in today’s world?

On this course you will use the Book of Kells as a window through which to explore the landscape, history, faith, theology, and politics of early medieval Ireland. You will also consider how the manuscript was made, its extended biography and how it has affected different areas of the contemporary world.

The course is for anyone with an interest in Ireland, medieval studies, history, art, religion and/or popular culture.

The course is for anyone with an interest in Ireland, medieval studies, history, art, religion and/or popular culture.

• Explain the function and meanings of medieval Irish art
• Understand how medieval manuscripts were made
• Engage critically with methodologies and scholarly debates which have shaped interpretations of the period
• Demonstrate knowledge of the distinctive features of the Irish Church in this era
• Combine visual analysis with theological and historical appraisal regarding medieval material culture