Dr. Carol Symes

Biography

Carol Symes is a Professor of History and Director of the Program in Medieval Studies at the University of Illinois. Her research explores premodern documentary cultures, examining the nuances of literacy and the access to writing across various forms of communication, including civic, legal, and ritual contexts. Symes has published extensively on the material and performative processes of textual creation, preservation, and the central role of medievalism in modern cultural trends and political projects. A professional actor and theatre practitioner, she has translated medieval Latin and vernacular plays for contemporary performance. Among her notable works is the book "Common Stage: Theater Public Life Medieval Arras," which has earned her prestigious awards such as the Herbert Baxter Adams Prize and the John Nicholas Brown Prize. She founded the academic journal 'Medieval Globe' in 2012, which promotes innovative methods in medieval studies. Her ongoing projects examine the interconnections between war, memory, and the medieval past, as well as the influence of medieval texts on modern historiography. Symes has also been recognized with the Kindrick-CARA Award and was named University Scholar in 2022.

Research Interests