Architectural colonisation in Anglo-Norman Munster:

examining the initial reception of Gothic in Ireland during the course of the thirteenth century.

Strand leader: Prof. Roger Stalley

This strand analyses the way in which Gothic was perceived both by the native population and by the Anglo-Norman settlers: to what extent was it a colonial style imposed on the country by a new aristocratic elite; to what extent was it accepted by Irish churchmen as a sign of progress and reform; and to what extent was it consciously modified and adapted by native born patrons? These questions will be investigated by concentrating on the roles of the key decision makers: secular patrons, leading churchmen and master masons. The study will focus on the eleven cathedrals in the archdiocese of Cashel, which are little-studied but which offer good surviving material evidence; they are also are varied in their scale, character and patronage, thus offering a range of comparative material.

Conferences Sessions and Seminars

18th June 2009: 'Reconstructions of the Gothic Past Roundtable'
Prof. Roger Stalley, 'Interpreting the Gothic Past: Archiepiscopal Architecture at Cashel'

13th July, 2010: 'Reconstructions of the Gothic Past', Themed Session, International Medieval Conference, Leeds
Prof. Roger Stalley, 'Gothic in a Gaelic World: The Archbishops of Cashel and their Cathedral'

Other papers presented
Prof. Roger Stalley, invited address at Jerpoint Abbey (24th October, 2009)