Karl Christian Alvestad

Karl Christian Alvestad is an Associate Professor at the Department of Culture, Religion and Social Studies, Faculty of Humanities, Sports and Educational Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway (USN) at the Notodden campus. Trained in the UK with a PhD in History (University of Winchester, 2016), he specializes in the intersection of medieval history, modern cultural representations, and gender perspectives.

• Education: PhD (2016), MA (2012), BA (2011) in History from the University of Winchester, UK

His research explores how historical figures and periods like the Viking Age and Middle Ages are appropriated in contemporary culture, with a focus on nationalism, gender, and LGBTQ+ history. He also investigates didactic approaches to social studies education and historical awareness in school contexts.

Alvestad's publications and lectures analyze medieval themes in modern media (e.g., Game of Thrones), the evolution of queer identities through history, and the transnational reception of figures like St. Olav. His work bridges academic rigor with accessible public engagement through platforms like the "Research Hour" and expert lists.

As a subject teacher for Social Studies education (grades 1-7 and 5-10), he contributes to teacher training programs while leading research groups on political culture, cultural heritage, and medieval didactics. He collaborates internationally as an external member of MIDDAK (Medieval Didactics) at NTNU.