Events & Courses

The recent discovery of the remains of King Richard III, one of the most controversial characters in British history, provides an opportunity to use scientific methods to assess conflicting historical and literary descriptions of his life. Dr Angela Lamb, from the British Geological Survey, will examine the changes in isotope chemistry found in Richard’s teeth, femur and rib bones; all of which develop and rebuild at different stages of life. Isotope measurements that relate to geographical location, pollution and diet (strontium, nitrogen, oxygen, carbon and lead) will be discussed, paying particular attention to changes relating to his short reign as King. The results reinforce the idea that food and drink were strongly linked to social status in Medieval England and provide new details about his childhood whereabouts.

Please note: The correct venue for the meeting is BGS, Keyworth (as above) not the Ulster Museum, Northern Ireland as mentioned in Issue 252 of the Society Newsletter.

Time

7pm start with refreshments available from 6.30pm

Speaker

Dr Angela Lamb, NERC Isotope Geosciences Laboratory

Further information

Please let the East Midlands Regional Group know if you plan to attend so we can judge refreshments