Tag Archives: 14th century

Automata of the Middle Ages

Posted on July 17, 2014 by

This topic is one of the interesting intersections between my medieval research and my current research into Chinese technology. Some of the earliest known automated figures are clock jacks–figures that come out and do something when a clock strikes a … Continue reading →

Posted in history, medieval, medieval technology, technology | Tagged , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Stretching things out: Hanged, Drawn and Quartered

Posted on June 28, 2014 by

During the Middle Ages, execution was a big deal–usually a very public big deal, with citizens gathering from all around to witness the event, both as a celebration of justice (the king’s and therefore, the Lord’s) and a warning to … Continue reading →

Posted in Elisha Barber, essays, history, medieval, The Dark Apostle | Tagged , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Little House in the City–London, that is

Posted on May 14, 2014 by

One of the best parts of my job is claiming tax deductions on trips to England for research. The first time I went, I specifically needed to know what it felt like in a 14th century house. I wanted to … Continue reading →

Posted in Elisha Barber, fiction, history, medieval, research, Uncategorized, worldbuilding | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Deleted Settings: The Traitors’ Gate

Posted on April 9, 2014 by

The Tower of London, built by William the Conqueror to dominate his new capital, has a long and fascinating history well worth reading up on. As I approached The Dark Apostle series, and especially the second book, Elisha Magus, it … Continue reading →

Posted in Deleted scenes and settings, Elisha Magus, history, medieval, research, The Dark Apostle | Tagged , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Longing for Spring: researching a historical garden

Posted on March 26, 2014 by

In just a few months, on July 1, Elisha Magus, book 2 in my Dark Apostle series, will hit the bookstores. Needless to say, I am thrilled. But when my window shows a snowy landscape, and my radio suggests that … Continue reading →

Posted in fiction, history, medieval, research, Uncategorized, worldbuilding | Tagged , , , , , | 3 Comments

Religious Influence on Medical Care, A Historical Perspective

Posted on December 23, 2013 by

A couple of recent court cases and the advent of recent changes to health insurance law have brought the issue of who controls the patient’s access to health care into the public mind, particularly in relation to religious freedom. Should … Continue reading →

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Meanwhile, Back in 14th Century Egypt

Posted on August 22, 2013 by

Like many American and European historical enthusiasts, especially those brought into the Medieval fold by way of fantasy literature, my immediate focus tends to be on the history of Europe. We love the castles, the kings, the knights, the tales … Continue reading →

Posted in history, medieval, religion, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments