Breath plays an key role in the imaginative fiction of the medieval period.  Romance writers draw on medical and theological theories of the time to portray the ways that the movements of the vital spirits – closely connected with breath – create powerful physical responses, which at their most extreme cause breathlessness, sighs and swooning.  Such phenomena play a key part in the depiction of emotion, particularly love and grief.

In this talk Corinne Saunders, Professor of English Studies (Durham University) and Co-Investigator on the Life of Breath project will explore romantic narratives and religious writings of the medieval period, focusing on Chaucer, Julian of Norwich, and Margery Kempe, to consider what they can tell us about the origins of contemporary attitudes.

This relaxed evening talk will take place in the Courtyard Café and will include free refreshments. Due to limited ticket numbers, please ensure that you book in advance: eventbrite.co.uk/e/sighs-and-swoons-breath-and-breathing-in-medieval-writing-tickets-56039809579

Image credit: Bodleian Library