Jocelyn Coulon

Please tell us about your research project. 

Currently in the third year of my PhD in medieval history, I work under the supervision of Pierre Bauduin (University of Caen Normandy, CRAHAM). I am affiliated with the Centre Michel de Boüard – Centre de Recherches Archéologiques et Historiques Anciennes et Médiévales (CRAHAM, UMR 6273).

I study the phenomenon of exile and the exiled individuals within the medieval Norman worlds, between the end of the 9th century and the middle of the 12th century (1154). In my doctoral thesis, exile is defined as a forced mobility imposed on somebody by someone else (often, an authority) or by the circumstances (hence it could sometimes be seen as a personal choice) to leave a territory of origin. Using a various range of sources (narrative accounts, normative texts, practical records) in order to produce a prosopographical database of exiled people, I analyse exile as a political tool of domination through its socio-spatial dimensions, while also examining the agency of exiles through their paths (social, geographical, etc.) and strategies (networks, choices, etc.). Therefore, my aim is to give a better understanding of the political, legal, social, and cultural modalities of (more or less temporary) banishment, contextualised within their broader contemporary European context, and thus to confront representations with realities regarding this condition.

While in Oxford, I plan to consult several medieval manuscripts that are held at the Weston Library, and make use of the Bodleian Libraries’ extensive bibliographic resources to enhance my research. I also intend to meet some medievalists from the University of Oxford, in order to discuss my research and explore potential collaborations.

Could you please tell us a bit more about your scholarship/exchange programme?

I was fortunate enough to be awarded the Monthly Scholarship by the Maison Française d’Oxford. This scholarship provides me with a room at the Maison Française, and access to the Bodleian Libraries, allowing me to pursue my research in Oxford throughout the month of February.

First impressions of Oxford/the University?

The city looks incredible. Although I felt a little lost at first, I found the atmosphere very enchanting : it feels like a unique blend of heritage, dynamism and excellence. The architecture is particularly striking ; I was fascinated by the old houses and colleges, and above all their libraries. I first came to Oxford several years ago for a two-days conference held at the Maison Française. At the time, I didn’t have the opportunity to explore the city properly. This time, I’m planning to spend some of my free time exploring Oxford’s cobbled streets !