LUKE FODDY
Writer and Historian
Welcome to my website, where you can find out more about my research and writing
ABOUT ME
I am a prize-winning historian with a particular interest in the medieval world. My primary research areas include the Ferrers earls of Derby; the period of reform and rebellion in England, 1258-1267; violence against the Church in medieval Europe; and crusading.
I believe in making history as accessible as possible, and often write for popular history outlets in the hope of engaging the public with new stories and ideas from our past. I also give history talks to groups and societies.
Aside to the medieval period, I have a broader fascination with all areas of history. I am also a keen photographer and often illustrate my articles with my own images.
I have a BA in History and an MA in Medieval Studies from the University of Liverpool, and have been published with the BBC, regional newspapers and specialist magazines. My research on Robert de Ferrers III's rebellion was awarded second place in the Midland History Essay Prize 2024.
LATEST NEWS
Prize-winning research on Robert de Ferrers III published in Midland History
I am delighted to share that my article, ‘Rebel without a Cause? Robert de Ferrers III and the Barons’ War in the Midlands’, has been published in Midland History, Vol 49, Issue 2. The article is based on my entry to the Midland History Essay Prize, in which it placed second. The research highlights how Ferrers’ activities during 1264 were much more aligned with the baronial faction’s strategic interests than is generally understood, and his behaviour far from unorthodox.
MY WORK
RESEARCH
Revolution, Reform and Rebellion in England, 1258 - 1267
The period of baronial reform and rebellion in England during the reign of King Henry III is one of my main research interests. My MA thesis focused on this period, and the involvement of Robert de Ferrers III, earl of Derby, in the civil war which broke out amid the struggle to reform the realm. I am actively researching this period, and have written articles on various aspects of the rebellion, including Simon de Montfort's January 1265 parliament and the Second Barons' War in Derbyshire.
Violence Against the Medieval Church
Another area of interest for me is violence against the Church in medieval Europe, an issue which I feel is generally overlooked. From interpersonal violence against those in Holy orders, to the destruction of the physical fabric of the Church, I believe this theme can tell us much about medieval society. Specific areas of research include the murder of Thomas Becket and the Church's response to violence through the weaponisation of language and the use of exempla.
Crusading in the East and the West
I have an ongoing interest in the crusades, having extensively researched and written on the Third Crusade, including Richard the Lionheart's Mediterranean exploits and the 1189 Siege of Silves in Portugal.
TALKS AND LECTURES
I like nothing more than talking about history. And occasionally, people want to listen!
I have given talks to local history societies on various topics, and am always happy to come and visit groups to chat about historical issues related to my research, including:
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Castles, Crusades and Rebellion: The Medieval Ferrers Earls of Derby
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Robert de Ferrers and the Second Barons' War
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Revolution, Reform and Rebellion in England, 1258-1267
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Henry III and Simon de Montfort
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Violence Against the Church in Medieval Europe
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The Murder of Thomas Becket and the Knights Who Killed Him
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Richard I and the Third Crusade
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The Sack of Silves, 1189 - Crusaders in the West
For bookings, please contact me
POSTS
I sometimes write about my research, and other things, here on my website. View my posts.
PHOTOGRAPHY
I am a keen photographer specialising in historical themes and landscapes (including all the images on this website!)
You can view a sample of my photography here
If you would like to illustrate an article with my photography, please contact me
