William the Conqueror: the origins of state building

International Conference of the European Center for Norman Studies

The Michel de Boüard Center – CRAHAM (University of Caen Normandy) and the European Center for Norman Studies are organizing a scientific international conference in Ariano Irpino.

British, French, and Italian researchers in the history of law and Norman principalities will present around fifteen papers, focused on a comparative reflection on the birth of the modern state.

Particular attention is given to William the Conqueror, who turns the Duchy of Normandy into a "proto-state" entity, notably through the introduction of crimen laesae maiestatis, inspired by Roman law. This adaptability of political models is later found in the Norman territories, from England to Southern Italy and Latin East.

Each presentation (30 min) is followed by a discussion with the audience.
The program also includes a visit to the Museum of Norman Civilization in Ariano Irpino, recognized for its collections (coins, weapons) and its model of the Battle of Hastings of 1066, a major event of the Middle Ages.

The conference is co-organized by Ortensio Zecchino, Pierre Bauduin, and Marie-Agnès Lucas-Avenel

Free,
In French and Italian
Informed public

Cooperation France / Southern Italy
Partnerships: European Center for Norman Studies, CRAHAM, UNICAEN