Darren Oldridge

Professor Darren Oldridge is a faculty member at the University of Worcester, specializing in Early Modern History. He holds the academic rank of Professor within the Department of History, Politics and Sociology, part of the Institute of Arts and Humanities. His research focuses on the religious and supernatural contexts of sixteenth and seventeenth-century England, including witchcraft, demonology, and the Devil's role in Tudor and Stuart society. He is also engaged with interdisciplinary topics such as the relationship between poetry, film, and historical narratives.

Education includes a BA (Hons) in History from the University of Nottingham and a PhD in History from the University of Warwick. He is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

Current projects include writing a book on early modern English demonology (2025) and editing the fourth edition of The Witchcraft Reader (2028). He leads a public engagement initiative exploring tactile experiences with seventeenth-century printed books, inviting participants to physically interact with historical texts and reflect on their significance.

• Research Interests:
• Religious history of the English Civil Wars
• Supernatural beliefs in early modern Europe
• Cultural history of witchcraft and the Devil
• Interdisciplinary studies of poetry and film

• Scientific Awards:
• Fellow of the Higher Education Academy

Advising and grants details are not explicitly mentioned. No formal advisees are listed. His work bridges historical scholarship with public humanities through collaborative projects and publications.