'Bastard' Feudalism? The fate of illegitimate children in later medieval England

Dr Helen Matthews


Region:
London
Notice Period:
Regular (more than one month's notice)
Type:
Hobby
Fee:
Paid: £60 plus expenses
Category:
History
Updated:
7th August 2023

This talk addresses some common myths about illegitimate children of the nobility and gentry, exploring the legal loopholes which could be be used to provide for them, with some notable examples of illegitimate children who did very well for themselves, and those who did not.

It also explores the different implications for the peasantry.

Views: 666 | Enquiries: 12

About Dr Helen Matthews

Helen Matthews is a former university manager who writes on history and travel. She has a PhD in medieval history and has written a history of bastards in medieval England for Pen & Sword,. She has also co-written two guidebooks with her husband, Neil, for Bradt Travel Guides:

Publications: The Legitimacy of Bastards (2019) The Slow Guide to the Chilterns and Thames Valley (2019) 52 Heritage Weekends (2022)


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