On a sunny Saturday, 15th June 2024, I had the pleasure of visiting Oxford for the summer meeting of the Viking Society for Northern Research, hosted in the distinguished White and Chase Room of the St Cross Building. The day was a perfect blend of exploration and academic engagement, making it a highlight of my summer.
The morning began with some sightseeing with friends from the medieval department of Nottingham University. Together, we explored the historic city of Oxford, soaking in its rich academic and architectural heritage. One of the highlights was visiting Lincoln College, where a friend who had studied her master’s there the previous year generously showed us around. Wandering through its picturesque quads and corridors was a delight, and it felt like stepping into a different world.
We also took a practical step towards future research by securing memberships at the Bodleian Library. Knowing that this iconic institution will be a resource for future manuscript studies is incredibly exciting, and the process of becoming members felt like a rite of passage into the wider academic community of Oxford.
Of all the breathtaking sights we visited, my personal favorite was the Radcliffe Camera Library. Its graceful arches and serene reading spaces are as inspiring as they are beautiful. Standing in that space, surrounded by centuries of scholarship, was a humbling and motivating experience. The quiet book nooks seemed to beckon me to return someday, armed with manuscripts and research questions to unravel.
In the afternoon, we attended the summer meeting of the Viking Society for Northern Research. The event was a fantastic opportunity to immerse myself in the vibrant community of scholars dedicated to the study of Old Norse. The President, Professor Heather O’Donoghue, delivered her presidential lecture, titled ‘The Misappropriation of Old Norse Myth.’ Professor O’Donoghue’s insightful exploration of how Old Norse mythology has been appropriated and reinterpreted in modern contexts was as thought-provoking as it was engaging. Her lecture prompted lively discussions and served as an excellent reminder of the relevance of Old Norse studies in contemporary cultural and academic landscapes.
What made the event even more special was the opportunity to meet fellow scholars from various institutions. Conversations following the lecture revealed the diverse approaches and ongoing projects within the field, sparking new ideas. It was a warm, collegial atmosphere that underscored the value of such gatherings in fostering academic connections and shared enthusiasm.
The trip to Oxford for the Viking Society’s summer meeting was a perfect blend of intellectual stimulation and personal enrichment. It reminded me of the joy of scholarly pursuits and the camaraderie that comes with being part of a dedicated academic community. I left the city with a notebook full of ideas, a mind full of inspiration, and a renewed sense of purpose for my research journey.
Bodies and Being 