Simon MacLean

Prof Simon MacLean is a Professor of Mediaeval History at the University of St Andrews' School of History. He specializes in Early Medieval European history, particularly the Carolingian Empire and its successor kingdoms (8th-12th centuries), as well as medieval queenship. His research explores political structures, royal institutions, and the cultural memory of post-Carolingian Europe.

Education:

• MA, University of Glasgow
• MPhil, University of Glasgow
• PhD, University of London

Research Interests: Prof MacLean's work focuses on Carolingian and Ottonian political systems, medieval queenship dynamics, and the evolution of political communities in post-imperial Europe. He examines topics like royal assemblies, fortifications, and the use of historical narratives to legitimize power.

Key Themes in Publications: His articles address Carolingian military strategies, the role of chronicles in political discourse, and the intersection of biblical exegesis with medieval governance. Recent work highlights the significance of frontiers, fortifications, and regional identities in shaping medieval political landscapes.

Awards:

• Fellow of the Royal Historical Society (2005)
• Philip Leverhulme Prize (2008)

Grants & Projects:

• Leverhulme Prize funded research on post-Carolingian queenship (2009-2012)
• British Academy projects analyzing Carolingian political structures (2016-2019)

Professional Engagement: He participates in interdisciplinary networks like the Castles and Palaces Research Group and regularly presents at international conferences, bridging historical analysis with archaeological and literary evidence.