Bangor University in the United Kingdom has achieved a significant milestone by securing a €3 million European grant to spearhead a pioneering project in Arthurian studies. This sizable funding, awarded through the prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Training Network, positions Bangor at the forefront of medieval and modern Arthurian research across Europe.
Advancing Arthurian Studies Through International Collaboration and Funding
This European-wide initiative is the largest grant of its kind in Wales and stands out as the only Arts and Humanities project of its type awarded in the UK this year. Led by Professor Raluca Radulescu at Bangor University, the project titled EU ARTHURS: European Arthurs, Medieval to Modern, aims to deepen understanding of Arthurian legends spanning from medieval manuscripts to contemporary multimedia interpretations.
Involving scholars from six European countries—Wales, Iceland, Italy, France, the Netherlands, and Switzerland—the project will create a unique consortium of experts dedicated to exploring the cultural, literary, historical, and multimedia aspects of Arthurian traditions. Starting in the upcoming year, the initiative will enable Bangor to recruit top doctoral candidates globally, focusing on critical themes such as center-periphery dynamics within medieval and post-medieval Arthurian texts.
Building a Collaborative Research Network
Professor Radulescu will lead a team of approximately 35 academics, doctoral fellows, and cultural partners from universities, museums, and libraries across Europe. This collaborative network will not only foster groundbreaking scholarly research but also emphasize high-level training, impact, and public engagement. The project’s scope encompasses both academic pursuits and outreach activities, including conferences, training events, and open-access publications, aligning with Bangor University’s strategic aims for REF2029.
Enhancing Bangor University’s Global Reputation and Research Impact
Bangor’s established expertise in Arthurian studies, centered around the Centre for Arthurian Studies, is set to expand significantly. The new project will elevate Bangor’s international profile by contributing to scholarly publications and conference presentations accessible to both academic and general audiences. Importantly, the project’s commitment to inclusivity ensures that research outputs and events will be open to wider public participation, fostering broader appreciation and understanding of the Arthurian legacy.
Research and Training with Lasting Cultural Benefits
Professor Radulescu remarked, “This recognition affirms Bangor’s reputation in Arthurian research and opens opportunities to develop doctoral research capacity and enduring European collaborations. The project will also feature advanced training programs designed to equip emerging scholars with interdisciplinary skills relevant to medieval and contemporary cultural contexts.”
The Significance of Arts and Humanities Funding in Modern Society
The successful acquisition of such a competitive grant underscores the vital role that Arts and Humanities research plays in today’s cultural and societal landscapes. As Professor Enlli Thomas, Pro-Vice-Chancellor at Bangor, noted, “Arthurian studies encompass literary, historical, and multimedia aspects that demonstrate the enduring relevance of the arts in shaping and reflecting modern society.”
Strategic Impact and Future Directions
This project complements Bangor University’s broader research ambitions and academic strategy for 2030, cementing its reputation as a hub for medieval and cultural scholarship. Through open-access publications, international conferences, and community engagement, Bangor aims to influence both scholarly discourse and public understanding of medieval legends’ contemporary significance.
Opportunities for Researchers and Students
PhD candidates and early-career scholars interested in medieval literature, cultural history, or multimedia interpretations of legends will find this project an invaluable opportunity. The consortium’s extensive network across Europe will facilitate exchanges, collaborative research, and cross-cultural dialogues, fostering a vibrant academic community focused on Arthurian studies.
Next Steps and How to Get Involved
Bangor University encourages aspiring doctoral students and scholars to explore opportunities within the project. Interested individuals should look out for upcoming calls for applications, which will provide details on research themes, eligibility criteria, and application procedures. This initiative not only enhances individual academic profiles but also contributes to the preservation and innovative reinterpretation of Arthurian legends for future generations.
Conclusion
The €3 million European grant awarded to Bangor University reflects its leadership in arts and humanities research, particularly in Arthurian studies. By fostering international collaboration, developing new research talents, and engaging the public, Bangor continues to strengthen its role as a global center for medieval and cultural scholarship. This achievement illustrates the enduring value of arts and humanities funding in enriching cultural understanding and academic excellence.
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