My Favorite Research Material

10/19/2013

I’m often asked where I find my research material. I use the same sources as everyone else, books, historical documents, and the internet. Obviously, I have to be a little more discerning when it comes to my web sources, after all, if someone decides that all castles were built by an alien named Roo, that’s hardly a fact. I would
say it falls under the heading of unrestrained revisionist history.

One branch of the internet I do enjoy is YouTube. They have some wonderful, well-researched documentaries from reliable sources such as the BBC or the History Channel. They give me an opportunity to view the past, not just how I imagine it from dry texts but how experts in the fields of history and archeology see it. I find this both inspiring and informative.

One of my favorite series is Terry Jones’ Medieval Lives, not only is this series educational but the humour makes it fun to watch.
This is my favorite episode - The Damsel. I hope you enjoy it.

Lorraine Paton link

10/19/2013 11:42:15 am

What a great series! Unfortunately I don't have time to watch the full episode right now, but I know I'll be back to finish it and maybe search out another. My first two novel length stories (both of which are completely unpublishable - LOL) were medieval, so I have a soft-spot for that era.

And, it sounds like you are not a fan of Ancient Aliens... (My hubby loves that show *sigh*)

diana link

10/20/2013 08:42:14 am

Love the look of your blog, Maggie. The photos... well, have to confess I recognise a few places. Taken on a previous trip to Scotland, perhaps? They're lovely.
I agree with you about the documentaries on BBC/Youtube. BBC4 is running a great series just now on Medieval Lives: Birth, Marriage and Death, and the marriage episode is already on Youtube. The medieval era is not really 'my' period, but it's a fascinating to see how (and why!) the marriage cermony has evolved over 1,000 years.

Darlene Maynard link

10/24/2013 01:27:39 am

I love to read medievals too, something about that time fascinates me as well. I'm writing a Fantasy set in medieval times but my characters are too modern sounding!

Marlow link

10/24/2013 04:46:20 am

Yes, it's always a struggle. You want your readers to understand your characters but where do you draw the line when it comes to vocabulary. I never use the word - okay. Even when I was growing up in England it was considered an American word.
I also try to have my characters speak in, what I call, BBC English. If you ever get a chance watch the BBC news, and listen to the newscaster. They're very uptight, but useful when it comes to writing.

Deb Smith link

10/24/2013 02:30:57 am

Thanks so much for the information and idea of searching Utube for research as I am embarking upon a quest for information about life in the late 1700's and early 1800's Scotland and Canada. I have lots of books but seeing things in a video is so much more real.

Marlow Kelly link

10/24/2013 04:47:54 am

I'm so glad I could be of help. Good luck in your quest.

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