Sydney Medieval and Renaissance Group Lecture
“Creating Familial Obligations: Diplomatic Gift Exchange during the Reign of Athelstan”, Tahlia Birnbaum (University of Sydney)

Date: Wednesday 12 August
Time: 7:00pm for 7:30pm start
RSVP: Non-members of SMRG who wish to attend should contact Luke Kendall (lukekendall@optusnet.com.au)

This paper explores the network of familial diplomatic relations created by Athelstan during his reign (924-39) as part of a system of gift exchange. Athelstan recognised the power of gift
exchange in creating a sense of obligation in the recipient, and used this practice to form a major part of his diplomatic relations. Athelstan established several important alliances with
Continental rulers through gifts of his sisters in marriage, and also through his fostering of foreign princes. Athelstan also shaped his domestic policy around gift exchange. To
complement his military success in the north, Athelstan ensured loyalty was maintained by bestowing gifts on important landholders. In diplomatic relations, both in England and on the
Continent, Athelstan bestowed generous gifts in order to create networks of obligations that guaranteed the loyalty of the recipient.