LUKE FODDY
Writer and Historian

Welcome to my website, where you can find out more about my research and writing

ABOUT

ABOUT ME

I am a prize-winning historian with a particular interest in the medieval world. My primary research areas include the Ferrers earls of Derby; the period of reform and rebellion in England, 1258-1267; violence against the Church in medieval Europe; and crusading.

I believe in making history as accessible as possible, and often write for popular history outlets in the hope of engaging the public with new stories and ideas from our past. I also give history talks to groups and societies.

Aside to the medieval period, I have a broader fascination with all areas of history. I am also a keen photographer and often illustrate my articles with my own images.

I have a BA in History and an MA in Medieval Studies from the University of Liverpool, and have been published with the BBC, regional newspapers and specialist magazines. My research on Robert de Ferrers III's rebellion was awarded second place in the Midland History Essay Prize 2024.

Contact me for more information!

LATEST NEWS

Reform and rebellion in the reign of Henry III - History Extra podcast

It was a great pleasure to be welcomed on to the History Extra podcast, which is created by the team that gives us BBC History Magazine. I spoke to Emily Briffett about how the political turmoil that unfolded from 1258 affected ‘everyday people’. We discussed how the reform programme implemented by the baronial council sought to address a range of problems in the localities, from the misconduct of sheriffs to people’s access to justice. It was fun, and I hope others find it interesting!

LISTEN HERE

MY WORK

RESEARCH

Revolution, Reform and Rebellion in England, 1258 - 1267

The period of baronial reform and rebellion in England during the reign of King Henry III is one of my main research interests. My MA thesis focused on this period, and the involvement of Robert de Ferrers III, earl of Derby, in the civil war which broke out amid the struggle to reform the realm. I am actively researching this period, and have written articles on various aspects of the rebellion, including Simon de Montfort's January 1265 parliament and the Second Barons' War in Derbyshire.

MY BOOK!

I am writing a book on this remarkable period - if you're a literary agent specialising in dramatic popular history, please get in touch!

Violence Against the Medieval Church

Another area of interest for me is violence against the Church in medieval Europe, an issue which I feel is generally overlooked. From interpersonal violence against those in Holy orders, to the destruction of the physical fabric of the Church, I believe this theme can tell us much about medieval society. Specific areas of research include the murder of Thomas Becket and the Church's response to violence through the weaponisation of language and the use of exempla.

Crusading in the East and the West

I have an ongoing interest in the crusades, having extensively researched and written on the Third Crusade, including Richard the Lionheart's Mediterranean exploits and the 1189 Siege of Silves in Portugal.

TALKS AND LECTURES

I like nothing more than talking about history. And occasionally, people want to listen!

I have given talks to local history societies on various topics, and am always happy to come and visit groups to chat about historical issues related to my research, including: