Henry Clarke

Dr Henry Clarke is a Lecturer in Roman History and Culture at the School of Languages, Cultures and Societies, University of Leeds. He is an active researcher and educator with expertise in Roman history, archaeology, and cultural change, particularly in Iberia during the Roman Empire. He is affiliated with the Centre for Ancient World and Classical Reception Studies and Water@leeds, and also a member of the Centre for Ancient Environmental Studies at the University of St Andrews.

Education:

• PhD in Classics, University of Leeds (2018)
• MA in Classics, University of Leeds (2012)
• BA in Literae Humaniores (Classics), New College, Oxford (2011)

His research focuses on local identity, cultural change, and human-environment interactions in the Roman world, especially in the Durius (Douro) River Valley in Spain and Portugal. He integrates theoretical approaches with archaeological evidence to explore how communities negotiated identity under Roman rule. He is also interested in the modern reception of Roman history, including the cultural parallels between ancient and modern rowing.

The available publications show a consistent focus on landscape archaeology and identity formation in Roman Iberia, particularly through the lens of environmental interaction and connectivity. His work challenges deterministic views of ancient landscapes and emphasizes local agency.

Scientific Awards and Recognition:

• Faculty Partnership Award for Academic Personal Tutoring (2021)
• Shortlisted for Inspirational Teaching (2017–18)
• Nominated for multiple teaching and supervision awards
• Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy

Dr Clarke is actively involved in student education, supervising PhD and postgraduate research, and serving as Academic Personal Tutor. He led the Academic Assessment and Feedback initiative in his school and is a member of the Equality and Inclusion working group. He has co-supervised a PhD on amphitheatres in Roman Britain and welcomes new PhD candidates in Roman history and archaeology.

He is a member of several research groups, including the Centre for Ancient World and Classical Reception Studies, Water@leeds, and the Centre for Ancient Environmental Studies at St Andrews, reflecting his interdisciplinary approach to ancient world studies.