According to the Irish Times, researchers have released groundbreaking research concerning Medieval Irish literature. Pól Ó Muirí of the Irish Times details this in a recent article titled “Groundbreaking research to establish chronology of Medieval Irish literature.”

Ó Muirí writes, “Prof David Stifter of Maynooth University has been awarded an €1.8m grant from the European Research Council (ERC) for a project that will date a large number of 7th–10th Century Irish texts and develop methodologies for dating languages that will be applicable across the world. It is hoped that this research will, in turn, shed new light on Medieval literature, history, and culture. Prof Stifter, Head of the Department of Early Irish at Maynooth University, said: ‘Linguistic dating is about to take a huge leap forward into the technological possibilities of the 21st Century. By developing and utilising unique methodologies that help us to accurately date these fascinating medieval texts and create linguistic profiles of their language, we are linking the past with the present. Given the complexity of Old Irish, the success of this project will represent a new model for the study of other languages that researchers all over the world will want to emulate.’”

For those looking to engage with Medieval history in a more hands-on way, the Daily Mail recently reported that a Medieval castle is available for rent. Lucy-Mae Beers of the Daily Mail reports on this in a recent article titled “The home that really IS your castle! The four-bedroom medieval Tudor estate that could be yours for $550 a week... complete with its very own DRAWBRIDGE.” Beers writes, “Ben and Penelope Crossman adjusted the original building in 2009 in order to make it look like a medieval castle and once it was erected, they were wed in it and then raised a young daughter. Whilst the property is their dream home, they have relocated to the Gold Coast for work and hope to rent to property out to tenants who will appreciate the fortress's charm and sentimental worth. Whilst the property is their dream home, they have relocated to the Gold Coast for work and hope to rent to property out to tenants who will appreciate the fortress's charm and sentimental worth. 'The bathroom basins are dark timber and old fashioned vanities scattered throughout.' The showers in both bathrooms have no curtain or door, continuing the relaxed, open plan theme that the kitchen offers. Outside, the property is completely fenced in and there is a large water tank that is covered in timber to resemble a barrel.”

If you’re looking to engage with Medieval history without poring through research or renting a castle, items like the Medieval Knights Armor Steel Butted Chainmail Mask from Armory Replicas are perfect for you. The chainmail armor provides protection against being cut by the opponent’s blade. This armor is effective against the sharp points and blades of the spear, axe and sword and it helps to prevent the skin from being pierced, as well as stops the fatal infections which often follow such injuries. The Medieval Knights Armor 17 Gauge Steel Butted Chainmail Mask consists of small metal rings linked together for a protective barrier for the head and face during battle between you and your enemy. It would be good for medieval and renaissance reenactments or LARP and Cosplay or just a cool collector’s item.

Whatever replica armory needs you might have, you can’t go wrong with Armory Replicas!